A pertinent question being asked in trade circles these days is: If the multiplexes and single-screen cinemas did not have objection to the direct-to-OTT release of Karan Johar’s Drive last year, why should they raise such a hue and cry over the release of films like Gulabo Sitabo and Shakuntala Devi? It may be recalled that Johar’s Drive, starring Sushant Singh Rajput and Jacqueline Fernandez, was premiered on Netflix on 1st November, 2019. At that time, none of the multiplex chains or single-screen cinemas raised a stink over the bypassing of the cinema platform. However, no sooner did Shoojit Sircar announce the premiere of his Gulabo Sitabo on 12th June on Amazon, multiplex chains expressed displeasure over the move, with Inox actually issuing a veiled threat to the producers of the film of taking retributive steps when their next would be ready for cinema release. Soon after the announcement of Gulabo Sitabo came the announcement that Sony Pictures Networks Productions and Abundantia Entertainment’s Shakuntala Devi would also be soon premiered on Amazon as cinemas are shut due to the coronavirus lockdown.