New Delhi: Kamal Haasan’s highly anticipated film Indian 2 is embroiled in legal issues concerning its early release on streaming platforms. The Multiplex Association of India has issued a legal notice to the film’s production team, alleging that they violated the mandated timeline for OTT streaming. The film, which hit theatres on July 12, was released on Netflix on August 9—significantly earlier than the required eight-week gap.
The Multiplex Association of India has established strict guidelines mandating that Hindi films must observe an eight-week interval between their theatrical release and availability on OTT platforms. Non-compliance with this rule could result in a ban on releasing the film in major national multiplex chains like PVRInox and Cinepolis. The team behind Indian 2 had initially agreed to these conditions, ensuring the film’s screening in these multiplexes.
A source told Pinkvilla, “The Multiplex Association of India has laid down rules for the theatrical release of Hindi films, expecting producers to adhere to an eight-week OTT window. Non-compliance could lead to a ban from top national multiplex chains like PVRInox and Cinepolis. The team of Indian 2 had agreed to these guidelines, which allowed the film to be released in these chains.”
However, the association was shocked to discover that the Hindi version of Indian 2 was already streaming on Netflix, well before the eight-week period was over. According to the rules, the film should have been available for streaming starting September 6, but it was released much earlier. This breach has caused considerable displeasure among industry leaders in the exhibition sector.
Indian 2, directed by Shankar, continues the story of Senapathy, a character portrayed by Kamal Haasan. Senapathy returns to India to fight corruption after being summoned by a group of young activists. The film also features Siddharth, Rakul Preet Singh, Priya Bhavani Shankar, Bobby Simha, SJ Suryah, and Vivek. Kajal Aggarwal, who plays a role in the film, is expected to continue her character in the upcoming Indian 3, as confirmed by Shankar.