Ajith Kumar’s film “Mankatha,” released in 2011, returned to theaters this past Friday after a brief pause following the Pongal celebrations. This re-release has generated not only excitement among fans but also controversy, particularly due to reports of unruly behavior during screenings.
The situation escalated when Ajith’s fans were accused of attacking a supporter of actor Vijay at Pandian Cinemas in Karaikudi. The theater management chose not to address this incident publicly but acknowledged on social media that some fans had caused damage to their screen in a misguided celebration.
The management expressed their disappointment, explaining that the theater screen was compromised due to inappropriate behavior. In a statement shared on Instagram, they highlighted the negative impact of such actions, including interruptions to shows, financial losses, and overall inconvenience for other moviegoers. Furthermore, they announced a policy change regarding mashup screenings, stating that they would no longer accommodate requests for replays due to these incidents. Their message concluded with a reminder that cinema is an emotional experience where respect is crucial.
At Vidya Theatre in Chennai, similar concerns were voiced. The owner condemned the actions of Ajith’s fans, who were seen celebrating by bursting firecrackers during the showing of the song “Vilayadu Mankatha.” A fan documented the event and shared it on X (formerly Twitter), prompting a strong reaction from the theater management.
Reiterating their commitment to providing a quality viewing experience, the owner expressed frustration over the disruptive behavior, stating that it could lead to a reluctance to screen re-releases in the future. One user responded to the owner’s post, emphasizing the seriousness of the issue and the safety risks posed to audiences by such reckless conduct.
As Ajith continues to focus on his racing career following his recent film projects, there has been no announcement regarding his upcoming movie endeavors. The incidents surrounding “Mankatha” serve as a reminder of the fine line between celebration and disorder in the realm of cinema.