Does India Deserve a Greater Screen Count Like China?
Synopsis
Jaaved Jaaferi raises concerns about India's limited cinema screens compared to China's vast numbers. He emphasizes the need for more options for filmmakers and audiences alike, stressing the importance of expanding the film industry. His upcoming film, 'Mayasabha', promises an intriguing storyline revolving around treasure and secrets within a crumbling theater.
Key Takeaways
Jaaved Jaaferi stresses the need for more cinema screens in India.
India currently has around 15,000 screens , significantly fewer than China's 125,000 to 200,000 screens . 'Mayasabha' features a gripping story about treasure and secrets .
The film's release is set for January 30, 2026 .
Expanding cinema options is vital for India's film industry.
Mumbai, Jan 29 (NationPress) Actor Jaaved Jaaferi, who is preparing for his upcoming film ‘Mayasabha’, has addressed the challenge of the limited number of screens in India.
The actor made a striking comparison between India's screen count and that of China, emphasizing that India is significantly trailing in this regard.
He expressed to IANS, “We require more cinemas in India. This is crucial. We have ample land available. People need to gather in one place. There is no need for them to stay elsewhere.”
Jaaved elaborated, “China boasts between 125,000 to 200,000 screens, while we barely have 15,000. When aiming to produce quality films, the scarcity of screens is a major hurdle. Options should be available. Our cinema is loved, but if screens are lacking, there’s no choice. Good cinema should be accessible.”
In the film ‘Mayasabha’, Jaaved plays Parmeshwar Khanna, a disgraced and reclusive producer residing in a decaying, abandoned theater with his mentally unstable son. Local legends suggest that 40 kg of 24-carat gold biscuits were concealed within the building long ago, never to be found. When two outsiders venture into the theater to investigate the rumor and search for the treasure, they inadvertently become ensnared in a claustrophobic labyrinth of secrets.
The ensuing narrative is a gripping cat-and-mouse chase, where paranoia and obsession steadily eclipse rational thought, transforming the quest for wealth into a journey of obsession and existential despair. The film features a score by Sagar Desai, with Kuldeep Mamania as the cinematographer and Aasif Pathan in charge of editing.
Scheduled for release on January 30, 2026.
Point of View
The discussion brought forth by Jaaved Jaaferi regarding India's cinema infrastructure is vital. As the film industry evolves, addressing the screen count deficit is crucial for nurturing creativity and providing diverse options for viewers. This dialogue aligns with the nation's cultural growth, underlining the need for more cinematic venues.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Jaaved Jaaferi say about India's screen count?
Jaaved Jaaferi highlighted that India has only about 15,000 screens compared to China's staggering 125,000 to 200,000 screens, emphasizing the need for more cinemas in India.
What is Jaaved Jaaferi's upcoming film about?
His upcoming film 'Mayasabha' revolves around Parmeshwar Khanna, a disgraced producer in an abandoned theater, and the treasure hunt that ensues when outsiders enter to verify local legends.
When is 'Mayasabha' set to release?
The film is scheduled for release on January 30, 2026.
What themes does 'Mayasabha' explore?
The film explores themes of obsession, paranoia, and the existential search for wealth amidst a claustrophobic setting.
Who is involved in the production of 'Mayasabha'?
The film features a score by Sagar Desai, cinematography by Kuldeep Mamania, and editing by Aasif Pathan.
