During all the special screenings of Hansal Mehta's new film, 'Shahid', the family of the slain lawyer, on whom the biopic is based, stood and watched as throngs of people took their seats inside the theatre

However, they refused to see the film themselves, preferring to purchase a ticket to watch a regular show.

Onlookers at the special screenings say that Shahid's family categorically refused to watch the film along with the members of the industry, as `they did not want to burden the makers`. Once the movie hit the marquee, the Azmis bought their tickets and watched the film. Says a source close to the director, `Shahid's family was present for all the screenings in the city. The late lawyer's mother insisted they would watch during a regular screening.` Mehta confirms, `Shahid's mother told us they won't watch the film for free.`