The Multiplex Association of India has raised alarm over Netflix’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, warning that the deal could diminish theatrical content availability and threaten India’s cinema ecosystem.
In a statement, the trade body representing multiplex operators nationwide argued that consolidating a major studio under a streaming platform presents competitive and economic risks to India’s theatrical market.
“The Indian theatrical market thrives on choice, scale, and cultural diversity,” said Kamal Gianchandani, president of the Multiplex Association of India. “Warner Bros. has historically been a key partner to Indian cinemas, contributing consistently to our release calendar with successful global and local titles.”
The organization emphasized that Indian cinemas serve as cultural centers and economic engines supporting millions of jobs across production, distribution, exhibition, food and beverage services, and related industries.
MAI criticized Netflix‘s historical stance on theatrical distribution, noting the streamer’s limited commitment to cinema-first release strategies. The association warned the acquisition could result in reduced theatrical content and compressed or eliminated theatrical windows for major releases.
“Netflix has consistently made it clear through its limited and highly restrictive approach to theatrical releases that it does not believe in the cinema-first model,” Gianchandani said. “If this acquisition proceeds, the risk is two-fold: a meaningful reduction in high-quality content for cinemas, and the potential for shortened or non-existent theatrical windows.”
The association stated such outcomes would impact exhibitor revenues, reduce consumer options, and weaken the broader film industry infrastructure in India. MAI said it plans to raise these concerns with regulatory authorities domestically and internationally.
Established in 2002 under the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, MAI represents more than 11 cinema chains operating over 550 multiplexes with approximately 3,000 screens across India.
