Mumbai multiplexes witness low turnout for 'My Name is Khan'

Mumbai, Feb. 13 (ANI): Despite tight security measures, very few viewers turned up to watch Shah Rukh Khan starrer 'My Name is Khan'.

Most cinemas began showing 'My Name is Khan' after initial reluctance for fear of attacks by Shiv Sena.

Earlier, agitated over Shah Rukh Khan's remarks that he would wish to see Pakistani players participate in the IPL season 3, Shiv Sena activists had torn down film's posters and vandalized theatres in the run-up to the film's release.

Some moviegoers who came to buy the tickets said that the clash between the actor and Shiv Sena seems to be over and hence they came to see the movie.

"It's all a political thing and ego clash. The main issue has gone aside...the main issue was the SRK's comment. The thing that he commented on the Pakistani cricketers that they should be taken in the teams... but now that issue is nowhere to be seen. It has all become political between parties and different people," said Utkal Desai, a movie buff.

Some complained that the multiplexes were delaying the morning shows out of fear from Shiv Sena activists.

"We have been waiting here since 7 in the morning. 8.30 am show got cancelled and we were ready for the 9 am show. Now they are postponing it to 10 and even 11. If they can release the film yesterday, why can't they show it today on time even when Mumbai police is taking guarantee for our security," said Nirmit, another movie buff.

On Friday, police took hundreds of Sena local leaders under preventive detention as they threatened to disrupt the film's screening.

Fox Star Studios has bought the distribution rights for 'My Name Is Khan', in what is said to be the biggest distribution deal in Bollywood.

The Sena's stance has triggered a heated debate across the country, with politicians, film stars and businesses weighing in. (ANI)