Three of the country’s leading cinema chains — Star Cineplex, Blockbuster Cinemas, and Lion Cinemas — have announced temporary closures in observance of the referendum and the 13th National Parliamentary Election.

Authorities at Star Cineplex confirmed that all branches will remain closed on Wednesday (February 11) and Thursday (February 12). Senior Manager (Marketing) Mesbah Uddin Ahmed told media that regular operations will resume from Friday (February 13).

Meanwhile, Blockbuster Cinemas issued a statement announcing a three-day closure due to the election. The theatre will remain shut from Wednesday through Friday, with screenings set to resume on Saturday (February 14).

Lion Cinemas has also adopted a similar schedule, suspending operations for Wednesday and Thursday. The cineplex will reopen its doors to audiences on Friday.

The temporary shutdown aligns with the government’s directive to close shops, shopping malls, and commercial establishments nationwide to ensure broad public participation in the voting process. In keeping with that decision, cinema halls across the country have also paused operations for the election period.