The Neelam theatre in Sector 17 Plaza, Chandigarh, is perhaps one of the oldest heritage building of our city. Suddenly the dark facade was lit by innovative lighting and an audiovisual show by Rotary Club of Chandigarh on 13th January to mark the three years of polio-free India. The brightened look attracted many and shoppers and visitors stopped to look around.
Neelam theatre was a fascinating landmark when it opened in 1962-63 with Manoj kumar-Mala Sinha starrer, Hariyali aur Rasta. The 1000 capacity auditorium used to be full till 90s, recalls Rajinder Thakur, General Manager of the theatre, who joined way back in 1967, and continues to hold the fort.
I remember, as a school kid from Ambala in '67 or so, my father drove the family down to Chandigarh from Ambala Cantt for an outing, and it was fascinating for small town folks to be fascinated by the red carpetted floors, giant chandeliers, and a peep into its 70mm screen. Chandigarh was a tourist destination
The road from Sector 18 to Sector 16 used to pass through the entire stretch of the market, in front of Neelam theatre, what it is now the plaza and parking. And used to be favourite after-College-hangout for most of us.
The theatre is in for renovation and may get converted to a multiplex. I hope it continues to retain its glorious exteriors the way we have loved it.
No comments:
Post a Comment