An alternate content that multiplexes were banking on may remain just a pipedream. Indian Premiere League matches, which mutliplex owners hoped
would bring in the crowds, may not be screened there after all. “It didn’t work out. That’s all I know about the matter,” an IPL official said.

Inox vice-president (distribution and programming) Utpal Acharya said, “We had approached Sony last time for the screening rights. This time they decided to have a separate body for theatrical rights and tenders were invited for the same. But I am told the tenders have not been opened as yet. We were banking on the aggregator who would provide the feed to us and give the minimum guarantee. Unfortunately nothing has happened till now. It is learnt there were three bidders for the theatrical telecast rights, including UTV, PVR and Group M.

It is learnt that Sony, which owns broadcast rights, demanded a minimum guarantee (Rs 50 lakh to Rs 1 crore per screening) to which the multiplex owners objected. “That and the tax burden were too much,” said an official.

But multiplex owners are still optimistic. “Given the embargo by producers on releasing films, it will be key to have an alternate programming strategy and IPL clearly takes the lead in filling the slots besides short film festivals, foreign language film screenings,” Anand Vishal, vice-president, marketing, Fun Cinemas said. “We plan to talk to the broadcaster directly to obtain rights to screen the matches at our multiplex,” he added.
Source – timesofindia.indiatimes.com