As Pakistani cinemas continued screening new releases during the Eid season, Pakistani actor and producer Fahad Mustafa called for longer operating hours for cinemas located inside shopping malls.

Mustafa shared a letter on social media addressed to Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb. In the letter, he requested a review of existing mall and cinema closing times, saying the current schedule was affecting the film industry.

The Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum actor stated that many cinemas operated inside shopping malls and were directly impacted when malls closed early. According to him, recently released films depended on this period to attract audiences and increase ticket sales.

In the letter, Mustafa wrote, “Since most cinemas operate within malls, early closure is affecting recently released films that are relying on this period to reach audiences.”

He also pointed to the wider impact on businesses linked to cinemas. “Extending cinema operating hours by a modest margin could help increase ticket sales and overall revenue for cinemas and film distributors, and support employment across the exhibition and hospitality sectors,” he wrote.

The Load Wedding actor acknowledged steps already taken by the provincial government for the entertainment industry. 

He said, “The Punjab Government’s support for the film industry, including initiatives such as Film City, has been greatly encouraging for all of us in the creative sector.”

He concluded the letter by requesting further support for exhibitors and filmmakers. “A small relaxation in operating hours would be deeply appreciated by filmmakers, exhibitors, and cinema-goers alike,” he wrote.

Zombeid, directed by Nabeel Qureshi, the film featured Mehwish Hayat alongside Fahad Mustafa.