Ajay Devgn: Yash Raj Films has been lying at every - Page 14

he Appellate Tribunal refused to pass the interim order filed by Ajay Devgn Ffilms against YRF

The battle between the two warring production houses has finally come to an end, at least for now. We have the latest figures that clearly declare that Yash Raj Films has won the battle, what with their filmJab Tak Hai Jaan getting set to release in 2,700-3000 screens across the country out of which 1,400-1,500 are single screen theatres. Whereas Ajay Devgn's Son Of Sardaar will now release in 1000-1200 screens across the country of which single screens will be 400-500. So the release ratio of JTHJ andSOS respectively is 65:35 in multiplexes and 70:30 in single screens across India.

In a hearing today, the Appellate Tribunal refused to pass the interim order filed by Ajay Devgn Ffilms against Yash Raj Films alleging anti-competitive practices claiming that YRF had signed exclusive release agreements with single screen exhibitors meant to block Ajay's SOS.

The plea was rejected on the grounds that the complainant (ADF) had not presented sufficient facts to establish that YRF has violated the Competition Act.

YRF issued a press release which states: "It was noted by the Appellate Tribunal that YRF had announced the release of its film JTHJ on 27th June 2011 on Diwali 2012 and commenced booking of single screen theatres in June, July & Aug 2012. On the contrary, ADF announced the release of its film only on 29th May 2012 and approached the single screen owners only in October 2012 by which time YRF had taken a lead. It was expressly noted that the number of screens contracted for JTHJ being far less than that of Ek Tha Tiger; prima facie no case of adverse effect on competition, much less appreciable effect on competition, was made out. Even as we go to press with this release, we are being approached by a large number of theatres with offers to screen our film."

The statement further clarifies why YRF has been mum on the matter so far. "Despite several media queries, YRF has maintained a strict media silence since the matter was pending before the competent judicial authorities. YRF has never desired nor manipulated such publicity. It is unfortunate that our refusal to comment has led to aspersions being cast on YRF's business practises, which have always been ethical and of the highest standards. With this matter having been laid to rest for now, we would like to get back to releasing Jab Tak Hai Jaan on November 13. This is the time to celebrate a Yash Chopra romance, which has traditionally lit up homes worldwide, during this festive season."

It's indeed celebration time for Yash Raj Films but we believe the real verdict will be out only on November 13 when both JTHJ and SOS will vow to beat each other at the box office. Let's wait and see who wins the real battle!