SMAAASH, the popular gaming and entertainment centre with over 45 branches all over India, has downed shutters. The continued lockdown, caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, and dwindling footfall in malls has led to the decision to shut operations.

Mirror has learnt that the amusement entertaining-gaming centre was struggling to stay afloat for the last few months and yesterday it took the call to shut shop. Sachin Tendulkar was its brand ambassador and there were many avenues to play cricket at the SMAAASH centres.

Businessman Shripal Morakhia had started the venture in 2012. There were two centres in Mumbai – in Lower Parel and Ghatkopar. The Lower Parel centre was spread over 120,000 square feet. The bowling machines at the indoor nets were programmed in such a way that one could face the bowling of Shane Warne, Wasim Akram and Lasith Malinga and the likes at its indoor pitches.

SMAAASH, with simulation sports technology, combined with virtual reality experience and music-based entertainment opportunities, was a popular haunt for the youth. There were also motor racing and bike racing simulators and gokarting tracks at the centres.

Apart from cricket, SMAAASH called itself as an acclaimed gaming and entertainment centre “that marries sports, virtual reality, music and dining into an immersive, evolved, interactive and innovative social experience for family, friends and children alike.”

Morakhia could not be immediately contacted but the news of its shutdown was informed to its employees by him through an internal email last night.