Lahore (PTI): Screening of several Bollywood movies in Pakistani theatres during the past two years has not brought spectators back to cinemas in droves, shattering dreams of the revival of the ailing film industry.

Some 25 Indian movies have been screened in Pakistani cinemas since 2006, when the classic 'Taj Mahal' was released after authorities eased restrictions on the import of Bollywood productions after a gap of over four decades.

'Singh is Kinng' is the only movie that has done relatively better business in Pakistan, exhibitors said.

After the closure of 1,300 of the 1,500 cinema halls across the country in recent times, the Pakistan Film Exhibitors Association pressed the government to allow the screening of Indian movies, saying it was the only way to save the remaining 200 theatres.

The PFEA was of the view that Pakistanis are fond of Indian films and would rush to theatres to watch their favourite stars on the big screen. However, their assessment did not prove correct.

People in the business blame two major factors -– terrorism and piracy -– for negating their efforts to bring people back to cinema halls.

"I don’t go a cinema hall to see my own movies because of the deteriorating law and order situation," said Meera, a Pakistani actress who has appeared in two Indian movies.