It's known that the Tamil Nadu government has allowed 100% seating capacity in theatres and multiplexes in the State. This has come to be seen as a shot in the arm for Thalapathy Vijay's 'Master', which will hit the screens on January 13.

Many are shocked that Tamil Nadu has done it when nobody else in the world, where covid-19 is still a major threat, seems to have done. In this context, Faheem Younus, the Chief of Infectious Diseases, University of Maryland, has said that it's cringy that the 100% seating capacity has been allowed. "Cinema theaters are poorly ventilated, indoor, crowded, prolonged exposure settings in India. I cringe at the thought of opening theaters without complete control over the viral spread. Avoid. Avoid. Avoid," the internationally-renowned expert today said.

There is a fear that the cinemas will become covid-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu because of the extreme relaxation given at once. The views of medical experts have been sought on the issue within India as well. It has to be seen whether the TN government will reconsider its surprising decision in the coming days.