The Maharashtra government on Thursday relaxed its order to multiplexes, saying that they were free to screen Marathi films any time between 12 noon and 9 pm. State culture minister Vinod Tawde's earlier diktat, that made it mandatory for multiplexes to reserve prime-time shows (6-9pm) in one hall for Marathi films, had got a mixed response in the state. Film producer Mukesh Bhatt told Mirror that the decision was taken after a meeting that took place between the government and the multiplex-owners. He said, “This is something that they should have done earlier. I completely welcome the move as now the stakeholders' consent has been taken. Giving them flexibility is the best thing that could have happened,“ he added. Legal experts had said that Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis may wish to promote Marathi films but compelling multiplex owners to reserve the prime-time 6pm slot violates the right to equality and freedom of trade.