A routine late-night screening at the INOX multiplex in Chinchwad, Pune took a violent and disturbing turn after a 29-year-old software professional, named Abhishek Prafulla Deshpande, and his wife were assaulted following a dispute over movie spoilers.
The incident happened during the screening of The Conjuring: Last Rites on Friday, 5 September 2025. The turmoil began when another patron, reportedly named Aqib Javed Nisar Patel, repeatedly narrated key scenes aloud, ruining the suspense for Deshpande’s wife.
When Deshpande asked Patel to stop, tensions escalated into a physical assault after the interval. Police intervened, registering charges under Indian Penal Code sections related to causing hurt and inducing breach of peace. Both parties have filed complaints, and investigations continue.
Spoilers and Altercation: What Happened?
The horror film, part of the popular Conjuring franchise, attracted a packed audience, but an incident involving spoilers disrupted the experience for one family. Deshpande was accompanied by his wife and sister when Patel allegedly started describing scenes loudly to his partner from the row behind them.
When requested to stop, Patel and his wife reportedly reacted aggressively. After the interval, Patel allegedly physically assaulted Deshpande by punching and kicking him, and his wife also attacked Deshpande’s wife. Multiple eyewitnesses reported the violent clash, and theatre security intervened post-assault.
Senior Inspector Bangar from Chinchwad police confirmed the registration of charges including Sections 117, 115, and 352 of the Indian Penal Code, leading to the arrest of Patel and his spouse. The victims were treated at a local hospital for injuries sustained during the attack. This incident highlights how seemingly minor disagreements over public behaviour can spiral into serious violence.
The Wider Context of Violence in Public Spaces
While violent incidents in public entertainment venues are thankfully uncommon, clashes over movie spoilers or personal space are not rare. Cinemas, which rely on shared experiences, often face challenges in maintaining decorum and ensuring safety for all patrons.
This violent episode reflects growing concerns about public behaviour and conflict management in crowded social settings. Reports from police and public safety officials increasingly advise calm, respectful dialogue to avoid such confrontations.
The incident also underscores the need for stricter enforcement of cinema rules and more proactive roles by security personnel. In a society where leisure spaces are vital for relaxation, ensuring peaceful coexistence despite diverse audiences remains a priority.
Maintaining proper cinema etiquette, such as keeping silent, refraining from disturbing others, and avoiding spoilers, is key to a positive movie experience for all. Multiplexes and audiences share the responsibility to uphold respect and ensure peaceful enjoyment in these communal spaces.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This unsettling event is a compelling reminder of why kindness, tolerance, and peaceful communication are essential in every aspect of society. The Logical Indian emphasises that no entertainment experience should be marred by aggression or fear.
Mutual respect between strangers in public venues must be the norm to foster harmony and safety. It is crucial for multiplexes to strengthen their policies on audience behaviour and for patrons to exercise restraint and empathy.
