(Image Credit: AsianCricketCouncil via X)
As the emotions in India escalate to fever pitch before the Asia Cup 2025 Final between India and Pakistan, the large multiplex chains of PVR INOX have gone on to decide to broadcast the final match live before the audience. The relocation is against a backdrop of increased patriotism and a corresponding expectation by the people, and it presents an opportunity to the cricket fans to enjoy the spectacle in a theatric setting. The previously sporting event has fast evolved into a national phenomenon, with fandom, spectacle and expression all being put to the test.
The fact that the India vs Pakistan final has been screened in multiplexes is a testament to the extent with which the subcontinent has ingrained cricket in their cultural mindset. The stadiums can accommodate the matchgoers yet theatres are turning into communal places of emotion and nationalism. To a certain audience, it is not only about runs and wickets, it is about identity and solidarity. With the nationalistic rush that has engulfed the whole country, parties, meetings and film shows have emerged as civic rites of passage. It is not only that the multiplex screenings offer high definition action, they are also a controlled communal experience with big screens, stadium sound and audiences screaming simultaneously.
The spectacle, however, is subject to criticism also. All in mud is an excellent phrase used to describe the atmosphere of such massive demonstrations. Whenever two countries are playing a sports event with the burden of history, loud cheers or shouts can become explosive. Multiplexes that air the match can be walking on a fine line, keeping the audience safe, not overreacting with patriotism and keeping order among the excited fans. Questions appear, what happens when chants or slogans violate guidelines? What would multiplex management strike to ensure there is a balance between enthusiastic fandom and respect and security? Additionally, by screening the match in multiplexes, the individual passion is turned into a collective act. An ordinary audience becomes a part of a group. That raises the question, not only of those in the playing field, but also of cinemas, employees, and local governments.
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