In an attempt to restrain the corona epidemic, the union decided to close down cinemas. This measure is a step to curb the public health hazard. Earlier today, chief minister Pinaraayi Vijayan requested to close cinema theatres in Kerala. Pointing out the potential hazard in public places, the chief minister suggested the measure. Film producers and distributors of the industry convened an emergency meeting in Ernakulam. The cine union decided to honour CM's preventive measure. For the sake of public health and welfare, cinemas of the state will remain shut until March 31st.
In the wake of the emergency measure, cine unions decided to reschedule the release of films. Most notable one is the Mohanlal starrer Marakkar; Arabi Kadalinte Simham (Marakkar: Lion of the Arabian Sea). The big-budget movie, directed by veteran auteur Priyadarshan, will not be released this month. Initial release date of the much-anticipated movie was March 26th. However, Marakkar does not stand alone. Kilometres and Kilometres, starring Tovino Thomas is also postponed for release. Director Jeo Baby and crew earlier decided to release the comedy flick on March 16th. If the red alert announced by the state authorities persists, Mollywood releases such as Surya's Soorarai Pottru and Vijay's Master will get affected.
In the district of Pathanamthitta, six new cases recently developed over the past three days. As of March 10th, officials diagnosed12 patients as positive for COVID-19 in Kerala. News of another round outbreak came out recently. This emerged after a family of 3 returning from Italy tested positive for the coronavirus. In a preventive measure to curb the spread of the virus further, state officials directed the shut down of schools and colleges. All educational institutions in Pathanamthitta and Kottayam will shut down. They will cease functioning until the end of March. However, Medical and affiliated colleges will remain functioning. Examinations for 8th, 9th and 10th grades will commence as per schedule, with adequate precautions.
