Actor Emraan Hashmi says filmmakers should let go of their obsession with box office numbers as having a theatrical release amid the coronavirus pandemic in itself is a step towards revival of the industry. Film shoots across India came to a standstill due to the pandemic, first during last year’s nationwide lockdown and then earlier this year when the second wave hit the country.
The increasingly worrying situation also prompted theatres to remain shut for months, to finally open up for operations in Delhi and other states recently. Maharashtra, a key centre for Hindi films, has still not allowed cinema halls to open. Hashmi, whose latest film Chehre is gearing for a theatrical release on Friday, said he is thrilled that the industry is finally gaining momentum. This is his second release in cinema halls after Mumbai Saga, which opened in March.