Multiplexes across Gujarat start screening MNIK

 Multiplexes across the city have started screening Shah Rukh Khan starrer 'My Name is Khan' (MNIK) after cancelling the first show owing to protest from VHP and Bajrang Dal activists, members of the Multiplex Owners Association (MOA) said today.

"Screening of MNIK has begun in most of the multiplexes in the city," Owner of Wide Angle Multiplex, and member of MOA Manubhai Patel told PTI.

"Though there were protests against the film in the morning, screening began with the second show after the first show was cancelled," he said.

Bookings opened at City Pulse, City Gold, Fun Cinemas and BIG Cinemas in the city in the afternoon.

Many VHP and Bajrang Dal activists protesting against the screening of MNIK have been detained at various places, police said.

Some VHP members tried to disrupt the film's screening at Fun Republic cinema, but were stopped by the police and detained.

In Rajkot, VHP members staged protest against Khan and the film forcing the multiplex owners to cancel the first show. According to multiplex owners, decision on screening the film in other shows would be taken later.

In Jamnagar, Shiv Sainiks burnt Khan's effigy, while some VHP activists submitted a memorandum to the district collector.

Meanwhile, in Vadodara and Surat MNIK was screened amidst tight security arrangements. None of the shows were cancelled and no incident of violence was reported.

In Surat, all major multiplexes Rajhans, Valentine and Rupam theatre screened MNIK as per the schedule.

The opposition for MNIK in Gujarat comes after a bitter attack on Khan by Shiv Sena over his remarks favouring the inclusion of Pakistani cricket players in the Indian Premier League (IPL).