Reported by Mumbai Mirror
The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has objected to the Maharashtra government’s Sports Department allowing a film shoot at Azad Maidan, accusing it of treating one of Mumbai’s most important cricket grounds as a commercial venue rather than protecting its sporting facilities.
The six-hour shoot for Ranveer Singh-starrer Pralay has also disrupted the schedule of Under-14 and Under-16 interschool cricket matches, forcing the association to postpone games that had already been lined up at the ground.
This is reportedly the first time a film shoot has been permitted at Azad Maidan. The MCA has written to the deputy director of sports, questioning the decision and pointing out that the ground is an important venue for grassroots and competitive cricket.
MCA Apex Council member Nadim Memon told Mumbai Mirror that the Sports Department was increasingly allowing commercial activities at the ground while neglecting its sporting needs.
A major portion of Azad Maidan was earlier handed over for the Aqua Line Metro construction, but contractors are yet to vacate the premises despite repeated reminders. The Mumbai Police have also continued to occupy the ground instead of moving back to their original location. Now, film shoots are being allowed as well,” Memon said.
