Canadian theatre halts Indian film screenings after arson and shooting attacks

A cinema in Oakville, Ontario, has suspended the screening of Indian films—including "Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1" and Pawan Kalyan's "They Call Him OG"—after two violent incidents linked to its South Asian programming.

On September 25, two men attempted to set fire to the theatre's entrance using petrol cans. CCTV footage, released by Film.ca Cinemas, showed the suspects in black hoodies pouring flammable liquid before setting it alight. The blaze damaged the building's exterior but was contained before it spread inside.

A second incident took place on October 2, when a man fired multiple bullets at the cinema's door before fleeing. Police confirmed both attacks targeted the theatre, releasing descriptions of the suspects to the public.

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In a statement on X, the theatre wrote: "This is not the first time we've faced threats over showing Indian films. While these incidents are concerning, they will not deter us from providing a safe and welcoming environment for cinema lovers."

Film.ca Cinemas CEO Jeff Knoll added in a video message: "Recently, someone even tried to burn the theatre down because of our South Asian screenings. We want our community to feel safe. We did not miss a single show and remain committed to our audience. At the same time, we regret any inconvenience caused, as safety must come first."