Popular India game arcade shuts down as pandemic hits business

Popular Indian gaming and entertainment centre operator Smaaash Entertainment is shutting down, according to an internal email and sources in the company, as few choose to hang out in its arcades amid surging coronavirus cases.

The company, which has counted cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar as its brand ambassador for years, operates in more than 40 locations across 19 cities in India and used to be a popular hangout for urban teens and tweens before coronavirus lockdowns and fears forced them indoors.

In a letter to the company’s employees dated Sept. 15 and reviewed by Reuters, founder Shripal Morakhia said, “I am sorry that despite my best efforts I have failed in my efforts to save the company from its premature death.” The email did not give other details.