The uncertainty around ‘Maatrubhumi’ is beginning to frustrate exhibitors across Mumbai. According to trade insiders, the Salman Khan-starrer was expected to capitalise on the Eid holiday corridor before delays pushed its release further down the calendar. “Everybody internally assumed Eid was the target,” says a source familiar with the discussions. “But once the film missed the window, people realised the timeline may not be straightforward anymore, given the lack of clearances.”

A still from ‘Maatrubhumi’

At Mumbai’s iconic Gaiety Galaxy, the absence has been particularly noticeable. Khan’s Eid releases have historically transformed the theatre into a carnival, with fans thronging early morning shows. “There’s a certain fanfare that only a Salman opening brings,” an insider adds. Ironically, the immediate excitement for fans now comes from Khan’s cameo in ‘7 Dogs’. The film is set to release across Middle Eastern territories, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, on May 27, while Indian distribution talks continue. mid-day had earlier reported on Khan joining the project during a shoot in Saudi Arabia’s AlUla. (Arabian tales for Salman- Feb 20).

“People are desperate to see Salman on the big screen again, so there is genuine interest, but it might not release on Eid,” says an insider. “Early reports suggest Salman has a 21-minute role and big action sequences.”

Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah. Pic/AFP

‘7 Dogs’, directed by Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, stars Egyptian actors Karim Abdel Aziz and Ahmed Ezz alongside Monica Bellucci. Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt appear in extended special appearances.