Shoojit Sircar made a brave move when he opted for a digital premiere of his next, Gulabo Sitabo. Expectedly, it invited the wrath of exhibitors and distributors who felt betrayed by the director's decision. As several filmmakers followed in Sircar's steps to seek direct-to-web release for their offerings, leading multiplex chain Inox warned of "retributive measures".

Sitting in his Kolkata home, a week after Cyclone Amphan wreaked havoc in West Bengal, Sircar is poised and pragmatic when asked if he is worried about the consequences. "Once you've made a decision, there can be no scope for fear. It's not about being brave; the situation compelled us to adapt. When I read Inox's [statement], I understood the theatre owners' point of view. If I were in their position, I, too, would have expressed my discomfort. I told them it's not a personal decision. If it weren't for the lockdown, the film would have released in theatres."