Multiplexes in Chandigarh

The single-screen cinemas are gradually giving way to multiplexes.  I remember visiting the Sector 17 shopping complex in 1967. The sprawling wide spaces were awe inspiring. The original SCOs of Sector 17 market were in place. Neelam and Jagat cinema were newly built, and helpful gatekeeper helped our family see the interiors as he let us peep through its plush interiors. For Ambala-bred family, the red carpeted grand stairs, and grandiose chandeliers, with 70mm screens were enough to make our decision to make our home in this city.

And when in 1969 we shifted to this new capital city of Punjab, it was a cultural transition, Kiran was the place to enjoy hitherto unknown Hollywood movies on Sunday morning, which later shifted to the round-domed KC theatre when it got ready.   
However, these single-screens also lived their life-spans as we discovered multiplex in Delhi.  

However, Kiran Theatre  that stands on 1800 sqyd plot in another popular and busy shopping area of Sector 22, was the first one to be built in 1953, the lone reminder of the city's heritage (amongst the cinema houses at least).  The Administration has rightfully denied it the permission to be converted into a multiplex though the new design claims to retain its original facade, many others are shedding their old garb to grab the dwindling cine-lovers into small multi-screen outfits. 

Jagat Theatre has already converted into one but has failed to meet various criteria to become operational. Neelam in the main market of Sector 17 has turned into an eyesore with management handing over even its entry gates to the small-time hawkers who sell samosas, tikkis, and pakoras. 

Batra is a non-entity with some calling it a bhoot-bangla considering its large structure and dimly lighted dusty interiors, with Nirman in Sector 32 not lagging behind. 

The unique architecture of KC theatre has however was razed long time back and it has yet to emerge from the ashes, while Piccadily has quickly transformed itself into a new-age multiplex.  

For the growing young crowd, cinema remains one of the preferred destination for those seeking three-hours of quite dark places, yet a few connoisseurs of good cinema won't mind a comfortable cushioned interiors of multi-screen outfits.  

For the cine-hoppers, here are your entertainment destinations : 

• D T Cinema, IT Park, Chandigarh, Ph: 0172-5003004
• Jagat Theatre, Sector 17-E, Chandigarh Ph: 0172-2702282 
• Kiran Cinema, Sector 22-D, Chandigarh Ph: 0172-2705082
• Nirman Theatre, Sector 32-D, Chandigarh
• PVR Multiplex, Centra Mall, Industrial Area, Phase 1, Chandigarh
• Batra Theatre, Sector 37, Chandigarh Ph: 0172-2724100
• Fun Republic, Dhillon Complex, Mani Majra, 0172-5050153
• Piccadily Cinema, Sector 34-A, Chandigarh Ph: 0172-2602000