Akshay Kumar's next Prithviraj that was scheduled to release on 21 January has been postponed due to the steep rise in Covid cases in India.
Backed by Yash Raj Films and directed by Chandrapraksh Dwivedi, the film stars Sonu Sood, Sanjay Dutt and marks the debut of Manushi Chhillar. The production house has decided to halt the release because of the Omicron breakout.
A source tells, "Prithviraj will massively aid in bringing people back to the theatres and it can’t be released at a time when it won’t fulfil this purpose. Business-wise too, it doesn’t make sense to compromise a film that will rake in the moolah at the box office.
PRITHVIRAJ POSTPONED DUE TO OMICRON AND CLOSURE OF CINEMA HALLS - #AkshayKumar's much awaited period drama, #Prithviraj will NO LONGER release during the Republic Day weekend. A new release date will be announced by #YRF in due course of time! pic.twitter.com/bXvLXwGuBP
— Himesh (@HimeshMankad) January 4, 2022
It’s a no-brainer to postpone the film and gauge Omicron and the COVID-19 scenario before taking a call on the next release date of the film." The Omicron scare also led to the postponement of Jersey, starring Shahid Kapoor. The sports drama was scheduled to release on 31 December.
Six days prior to the release of one of the biggest films of the year, the makers of SS Rajamouli’s RRR starring Ram Charan and Jr NTR decided to delay the film due to concerns over the new COVID variant.
“Inspite of our relentless efforts, some situations are beyond our control. As many Indian states are closing theatres, we are left with no choice but to ask you to hold on to your excitement. We promise to bring back the Glory of Indian Cinema and at the right time, WE WILL.” the statement read.