Bobby Deol Starrer Bandar Faces Showcasing Hold Amid Screen Allocation Dispute

The Bobby Deol-starrer Bandar has hit a significant roadblock as production house Zee Studios has halted the film’s showcasing in national multiplex chains. This move follows a dispute over screen allocation, where the makers claim that cinema giants like PVR Inox and Cinepolis have failed to provide a fair number of shows. Despite requesting a focused release strategy—specifically 3 to 4 slots post 1 pm—the makers allege that unfair preferences are being shown to other films currently hitting the screens.

According to Zee Studios Distribution & Revenue Head, Girish Johar, the team’s release strategy was designed for long-term growth rather than an initial weekend spectacle. The plan aimed for a measured release in 500-600 screens, allowing word-of-mouth to drive future showcasing. However, the current back-and-forth between the producers and theater chains has forced the team to pause booking, citing dissatisfaction with the unfair distribution of show slots compared to competing titles like Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai and Peddi.

This deadlock represents the latest friction point in a highly competitive release week. The producers maintain that the advance sales of competing films are underwhelming, making the denial of slots for Bandar even more frustrating. As negotiations continue, the future of the film's theatrical debut remains in flux, casting doubt on the immediate box office trajectory of the Bobby Deol-led project while the industry watches to see how the exhibitors adjust their final programming.