Kashmir's first multiplex theatre inaugurated in Srinagar, three-decade wait ends

Around three-decade wait for movies on the big screen in Kashmir came to an end on Tuesday with the inauguration of the INOX multiplex theatre in Srinagar. The multiplex was inaugurated by Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha. 

"Inaugurated INOX multiplex theatre in Srinagar. Congratulations to the people, Sh. Vijay Dhar & INOX Group. A major socio-economic revolution is sweeping through J&K in the last 3 years. It is reflection of a new dawn of hope, dreams, confidence and aspirations of people," the Office of LG J&K said in a tweet. 

The multiplex has been thrown open to the public on Tuesday with a special screening of Aamir Khan-starrer 'Lal Singh Chaddha'.

"Regular shows will start from September 30 with the screening of Vikram Vedha, starring Hrithik Roshan and Saif Ali Khan," businessman Vijay Dhar said.

Inaugurated INOX multiplex theatre in Srinagar. Congratulations to the people, Sh. Vijay Dhar & INOX Group. A major Socio-economic revolution is sweeping through J&K in the last 3 years. It is reflection of a new dawn of hope, dreams, confidence and aspirations of people. pic.twitter.com/VhdiVTHhQw

— Office of LG J&K (@OfficeOfLGJandK) September 20, 2022

According to news agency PTI, the first multiplex in Kashmir will have three movie theatres with a total capacity of 520 seats. The premises will also have a food court aimed at promoting local cuisine.

The inauguration of the multiplex comes close on the heels of Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurating multipurpose cinema halls - one each in the twin Pulwama and Shopian districts.

The Valley had seen nearly a dozen stand-alone cinema halls functioning till the late 1980s, but they had to wind up businesses after two militant outfits threatened the owners.

Though authorities made attempts to reopen some of the theatres in the late 1990s, militants thwarted such efforts by carrying out a deadly grenade attack on Regal Cinema in the heart of Lal Chowk in September 1999.

Two other theatres -- Neelam and Broadway -- had opened their doors but had to shut business due to poor response.

Jammu and Kashmir has a long association with the world of cinema. The new film policy and facilities created has once again made the Union Territory the favourite shooting destination and has brought back the golden era of film-making here, the LG said.

(With PTI inputs)