Tamil Nadu theatres cancel shows as Kalam’s mortal remains would finally be put to rest

Fuel stations will also be not functioning for an hour in the morning as a mark of respect to the 83-year-old scientist who died of cardiac arrest on Monday at Shillong. The decisions were taken by the respective bodies on Wednesday morning.

“In a world marked by scientific developments, India’s flag flew high because of Dr Kalam. Today, cinema industry is driven by scientific technology and it only fits that we pay respect to the Indian who put us on the scientific map,” said Abirami Ramanathan, president, Tamil Nadu Theater Owners Federation.

According to Ramanathan, screens across the state (nearly 850) have cancelled their noon and matinee shows and shows on Thursday would resume from 6 pm.

“The smallest contribution we can do on our part is to shut down our screens so that people do not indulge in entertainment when the funeral is on, he said adding, “Another reason is that Dr Kalam was a Tamilian and we are all proud that our land had produced a great human being.”

All fuel stations in the state numbering a little less than 5,000 too will shutdown their business for one hour, between 10 am and 11 am as a mark of respect.

“ It is the last salute on our behalf to him. All our staff and managers will pray for his soul during the hour,” said K.P. Murali, president, Tamil Nadu Petroleum Dealers Association.

Mr.Murali hoped that customers would understand and co-operate with this hasty announcement.

“I am sure a lot of customers will come during that hour and am equally sure that they will understand our gesture and join us in our prayers,” he said.