No 'Dil Chahta Hai' shows at Aamir's film festival—here's why
What's the story
The Aamir Khan Film Festival, organized to celebrate the actor's 60th birthday, has left fans disappointed after several shows of the iconic film Dil Chahta Hai were canceled.
Despite being one of the most awaited films at the festival, it witnessed limited screenings across the country.
Source told Bollywood Hungama that while Dil Chahta Hai's shows were bookable, they weren't screened on the first two days, as the KDM (Key Delivery Message) wasn't issued.
Refunds
Refunds issued as 'Dil Chahta Hai' fails to screen
The source revealed that only a handful of Dil Chahta Hai shows were screened on Sunday post-noon, despite huge demand for the film. This resulted in pre-booked ticket holders being given refunds.
In some cinemas, other Aamir Khan classics like Taare Zameen Par were played instead, with patrons being offered to watch those or take a refund.
Social media impact
'Dil Chahta Hai' absence felt on social media
The limited screenings of Dil Chahta Hai also impacted its presence on social media.
The source explained, "This is the reason why there are no videos on social media of people dancing to Koi Kahe Kehta Rahe or Woh Ladki Hai Kahaan in the cinema halls, the way it happened with Balam Pichkari (Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani) or Mahi Ve (Kal Ho Naa Ho) because barely any shows were played in the country."
Schedule changes
'3 Idiots' also pulled from festival lineup
Dil Chahta Hai wasn't the only film to have scheduling issues at the festival. Another cult classic 3 Idiots has also been pulled out of the lineup.
Meanwhile, AK films like Dil and Talaash are playing with multiple shows, despite not being as popular.
An industry insider bashed the organizers for not planning better and ensuring that films with high demand have daily shows.
Upcoming release
'Andaz Apna Apna' to have full-fledged release in April
Another classic, Andaz Apna Apna, also had limited shows at the festival. But fans aren't complaining as its full-fledged release is scheduled for April, confirmed Priti Sinha, the daughter of its producer Vinay Sinha.
The Aamir Khan Film Festival will continue till March 27, and patrons are hopeful Dil Chahta Hai will return to cinemas in the coming weekend.