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India, South Korea Sign Audio-Visual Agreement
South Korea and India have signed an audio-visual agreement to facilitate co-productions. The treaty was signed by South Korean minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Yoon Sang-jik and Indian vice foreign minister Anil Wadhwa at a ceremony in Seoul. The ceremony was attended by South Korean President Park Geun-hye and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his two-day trip to Seoul to further bilateral free trade agreements. The Korean Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy stated that the agreement will allow film and broadcast co-productions the following: Equal treatment, eligible for the same benefits, as domestic product Facilitation of co-producers' entry into either country Temporary committees to resolve other restrictions and barriers. To qualify as a co-production, 20% or more of a film's production budget must be from the partner country
INOX Introduces AllNew Website and App INOX Leisure Limited (INOX), India's premier multiplex chain, recently launched an application for Android based phone, iPhone, iPad and Tablet users. The application allows users to check show timings of movies, select seats and book tickets
on the go. One can also locate the nearest theatre through the App. INOX has additionally revamped its website to make it faster and effective for its guests. The brand which has been a constant innovator in its space has yet again initiated a concept for its consumers. Movie goers can additionally take part in contests that are run regularly along with real time updates. The website also serves the purpose of providing information on all INOX properties as well as its investors, shareholders and the media. Commenting on this, Mr Alok Tandon, Chief Executive Officer, INOX Leisure Ltd, said, "INOX has been a premier player in the movie exhibition business. We are committed to empowering our customers with innovative technologies. The new website and our App have been designed to strengthen our relationship with our guests and provide them the best movie viewing experience at INOX.." INOX enlisted Aurus IT Solutions to develop the website to be highly accessible. Through the new website users can reach INOX online across all smart-phone platforms with the newly developed App and a WAP website for mobile users. The website's mobile accessibility will make spontaneous securing of tickets. Rahul Dhingra, Chief Executive Officer - Aurus IT Solutions, said, "It was important for us to align with the INOX brand to create a fresh design with a modern appeal. Aurus, in its engagement with INOX, has chosen to strategically focus on UX (User Experience) with ease of use and convenience of the customer in mind. The new technology will bring a plethora of features including ordering food and pre-booking of movies. Aurus IT Solutions will help INOX engage its customers on a larger digital footprint with a new website, mobile website, iOS App, Android App followed by Apps on the Windows Platform and Social media."
Miraj Cinemas Wins 3 Awards Miraj Cinemas has won 3 prestigious awards at the Business World : The Fridays. The three awards were for Fastest Growing Chain, Best Marketing Initiative and Best Chain National (Under 20 screens category). Miraj Cinemas had launched its 1st property, a 2-screen multiplex, in the city of Ajmer on 19th October 2012, with a vision to provide and maintain the best service standards and today, they stand at 48 operational screens and 50 screens under fit out.
PK Opens Big in China PK has opened to a bumper box office at USD 736,000 across 4600 screens in China. This is the highest opening for any Indian film in China, and the second highest opening for film for today in China. This is the second highest opening for any Overseas territory for PK (North America was USD 972K) which went on to do over USD 10 Million! The cumulative GBO for PK is now at USD 27.4 million, and is all set to become the biggest Indian film overseas ever.
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Qube Incorporates Auro 11.1 by Barco Immersive Sound Digital cinema leader Barco and USbased digital cinema server manufacturer Qube Cinema have reached an agreement on the integration of the 'Auro 11.1 by Barco' decoder in Qube's integrated media blocks (IMB). This decision is a major step forward for both companies, ensuring a smooth upgrade to the Barco Auro 11.1 immersive sound system for theatre owners and cinema chains. Qube Cinema - a subsidiary of Indiabased cinema technology leader Real Image Technologies - manufactures digital cinema servers for commercial and institutional cinemas worldwide. Qube server is the leading server in India on the Digital Cinema platform. Designed for the next generation of digital cinema, Qube Cinema's IMBs allow theatre owners and cinema exhibitors seamless integration across all platforms - from 2K to 4K high frame rate (HFR). With more than 700 Barco DCI projectors, both the companies plan to take the next step in digital immersive cinema and take it to all new level. Auro 11.1 by Barco allows for the reproduction of natural lifelike aural experiences optimized for the entire audience thanks to its unique 3-layer approach. Auro 11.1 by Barco uses existing theatre's speakers for the lower layer and simply adds the speakers necessary to achieve a realistic interpretation of height. In 2014, Barco released more than 60 titles in Auro 11.1. Furthermore, there are currently no fewer than fifteen studios in India mixing content in Auro 11.1 by Barco, thus ensuring an ever-growing stream of new Hollywood, Bollywood and regional movies like Isai, I, Mayajaal, Lokmanya, Balkadu, Home, Insurgent, Jupiter Ascending, and American Sniper to name a few. Ddecoding the Auro 11.1 by Barco Immersive Audio technology will now be available on Qube IMBs. Theatres having the Qube IMB can
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now install this support with any 16-channel cinema processor by just adding the additional layer of speakers and amplifiers. "We already have 600 of these systems deployed in cinemas across India. Exhibitors need to engage their audiences, and offering 'Auro 11.1 by Barco' immersive sound is a cost-effective way to do that," says Senthil Kumar, founder and CEO of Qube Cinema. He adds, "We are excited about this development and look forward to large-scale deployment of Auro 11.1 by Barco on the Qube platform." "Entertaining the pioneering spirit of its parent company Real Image Media Technologies, Qube Cinema is committed to creating a seamless world of immersive digital cinema," says Brian Claypool, Senior Director Strategic Business Development at Barco. "Consequently, its philosophy is complementary with Barco's concept for the future, which aims to take the digital cinema experience to an all-new level."
CRISIL Research Assigns Valuation grade 5/5 to INOX CRISIL Research has published an Independent Equity Research (IER) report, on INOX Leisure Ltd (INOX), which has assigned a CRISIL IER valuation grade of 5/5 (pronounced 'five on five') and fundamental grade of '3/5' (pronounced 'three on five') to INOX. The valuation grade '5/5' indicates strong upside from the current market price and the fundamental grade '3/5' indicates that the company's fundamentals are 'good' relative to other listed equity securities in India. The report stresses on INOX's entrenched position in the domestic multiplex industry, attractive industry growth prospects, and the expected rise in food and beverage (F&B) and advertising revenues.
Through a mix of organic and inorganic expansion, INOX has emerged as the second largest multiplex player in India. It currently has ~23% share of multiplex screens in India. From the valuation perspective, CRISIL Research has used the EV/ EBITDA multiple method to value INOX. CRISIL has assigned a multiple of 9x, which is in line with the median one-year forward trading multiple of publicly-listed international multiplex operators, on FY17 EBITDA to arrive at a per share fair value of 201 (adjusted for treasury shares). According to the report, INOX's revenues are poised to grow at a two-year CAGR of 21% over FY15-17E to 13 bn driven by higher footfalls arising from expanding screen network and growth in ancillary revenue streams (F&B and Advertising). EBITDA margin is estimated to expand by 90 bps over FY15-17E on the back of growing contributions from the high-margin F&B and Advertising operations. Implementation of GST may provide further impetus to margins, although CRISIL has not built in the same in estimates. Due to company's older properties ramp up, asset turnover should improve which, coupled with expanding PAT margin due to growth in operating profit, is likely to translate into a healthy two-year CAGR of 35% in adjusted PAT which, in turn, is expected to drive RoE expansion. Commenting on the report, Mr Deepak Asher, Director - INOX Leisure Ltd said, "We are happy to receive robust grades from CRISIL on both valuation and fundamental levels. This report recognises INOX Leisure's preeminent position in the underpenetrated and high growth multiplex space, and with expected improvements in operating parameters, highlights the potential growth in return ratios, to drive value for our investors.
INOX Brings Real-time Information through BRENZY App INOX in association with BRENZY is the first multiplex in India to introduce an application that provides movie goers with real time information on films, special offers and discounts that one can avail at INOX through a one-time download of the application 'BRENZY'. 'BRENZY', a Bluetooth based mobile application uses the latest cutting edge technology 'Beacon' to provide location based information and offers. The information and offers are relayed to the smart phone of the end-users through a small device called 'Beacon'. These 'Beacons' are located in the multiplex, providing seamless and unobtrusive flow of relevant information. Once guests walks-in at an INOX, they start getting offers and information pushed through 'Beacons' to their smart phone. These information and offers can be availed at the Box Office or Food & Beverage counters, provided the Bluetooth of the smart phone user is active. "This will be the first time that a movie-goer will get to experience the most technologically advanced engagement anywhere in India. We are excited to be able to create more opportunities in the entertainment space for our patrons. At INOX we continue to find new ways and emerging technologies to enhance the movie going experience of our guests. We are launching this service at INOX Nariman Point and Malad in Mumbai and INOX Amanora in Pune. More locations will be added subsequently" said Mr Alok Tandon, Chief Executive Officer, INOX Leisure Ltd. "The 'Beacon' technology will give us a new way of engagement with our guests, wherein we can track their buying behaviour, preferences
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and their redemption pattern. Later on, we would be pushing last minute inventories as well, through this service" said Mr Jitender Verma, Chief Technology Officer, INOX Leisure Ltd. Mr Sunil Purushe, Chief Operating Officer, Beacon Frenzy Mobile Apps Private Limited added "Our association with INOX is a step towards providing technology based marketing solutions that provides both INOX and its patrons an enhanced movie going experience. Users can download the BRENZY App from the App Store or Google Play for free. BRENZY App supports iOS and Android.
Galalite Co-sponsors BusinessWorld Cinema Exhibition Awards & Conference
Saurabh Saxena Joins Carnival Cinemas The Fridays, BusinessWorld Cinema Exhibition Awards & Conference, is one of the most prestigious and coveted award events that the industry looks forward to every year. It recognizes and felicitates the game changers, innovators, those who have achieved excellence and exhibitors of great ideas from the industry.
Saurabh Saxena has joined as the Chief Operating Officer of Carnival Cinemas. Saxena has 24 years of experience in the hospitality and entertainment industry. He was previously associated with various multiplex organisations such as PVR, Fame Cinemas, Cinemax, Inox, Wave Cinemas and Sahara Entertainment. After acquiring HDIL's Broadway, Reliance's Big Cinemas and Glitz Cinemas, Carnival now has 346 plus screens operating in the country. With presence in metro cities along with tier 2 and tier 3 cities, Carnival Cinemas aim to offer better movie watching experience across the nation. Carnival is currently present in Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.
This year, Galalite, leaders in cinema technologies and makers of celluloid screens co-sponsored the event which was held on 15th May, 2015 at ITC Grand Maratha, Mumbai. What’s more, Yusuf S Galabhaiwala third generation of family run Galalite presented the awards for Best National Cinema Chain India, Best National Cinema Chain under 20 screens and Best National Cinema Single Screen. It was an experience that will be truly indelible.
Eros Signs 4Film Deal with Cinema Halls Eros International has tied up with cinema halls across India, in a first four-film deal between a production house and exhibitors. Eros has secured places for its release Tanu Weds Manu Returns, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Hero and Bajirao Mastani.
UFO Moviez Lists at 4% Discount to Issue Price on NSE Shares of UFO Moviez got listed at 600, a 4% discount to the IPO price of 625 on the NSE, and were currently trading at a discount of 614.20 (10.30 am IST). UFO Moviez India had raised 600 crore through initial public offering, which came at a price band of 615-625 a share. The public offer by UFO Moviez was subscribed twice compared to the shares on offer. So far, about 14 lakh shares on the NSE and 3.7 lakh shares on the BSE exchanged hands. Earlier, the company had raised 180 crore by allotting 2.88 million equity shares at 625 per share to anchor investors such as Reliance Capital, Reliance Mutual Fund, SBI Mutual Fund, Pinebridge Global Funds, Royal Bank of Scotland, Jupiter South Asia Investment Company, Amundi Funds, Ashmore SIC, Kotak Mutual Fund and Bharti Axa Life Insurance Company.
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The objective of the offer is to achieve the benefits of listing the equity shares on the stock exchanges and for the sale of equity shares by the shareholders, who include 3i Research (Mauritius), P5 Asia Holding Investments (Mauritius), Sanjay Gaikwad (Managing Director), Narendra Hete, Valuable Media, Valuable Technologies, Raaja Kanwar, Prafulla Vaidya, Uday Gaikwad and Rakesh Gupta. UFO Moviez is a digital cinema distribution network and in-cinema advertising platform provider to producers, distributors and exhibitors (multiplexes, multiscreen theatres). It operates in a kind of niche space. The company provides digital prints to ensure secured delivery of movies, resulting in quick and large-scale release across geographies simultaneously. It also leases out digital equipment to movie exhibitors. In addition, it has developed a platform where companies can place advertisements to reach a wide audience.
India Pavilion Inaugurated at Cannes The India Pavilion was inaugurated at the Cannes Film Festival by Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting. FICCI is coordinating the India Pavilion with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting for the second consecutive year. The India Pavilion will feature Indian cinema's linguistic, cultural and regional diversity by showcasing trailers, and displaying literature and brochures on varied aspects. FICCI along with the Ministry will hold sessions on the sidelines of the festival while two Indian films Chauthi Koot and Masaan -
have been chosen in the 'Un Certain Regard' category at Cannes. A session on the 'Journey to Cannes' of the film Chauthi Koot took place on the first day while a post-screening reception for the film has been organised as well.
'Prime-Time' Rule for Marathi Movie Slamming the Maharashtra cultural affairs minister Vinod Tawde for redefining the 'prime-time' for screening of Marathi films in multiplexes between 12 pm to 9 pm, the ruling coalition partner Shiv Sena today said Marathi films should get reserved slots of their choice. "There was joy everywhere when the government announced a primetime slot for Marathi films. But after the multiplex owners met Vinod Tawde the next day, a pall of gloom has descended on Marathi producers," said the editorial in the Sena mouthpiece Saamana. "Marathi films should get a reserved slot at multiplexes according to their choice in Maharashtra's capital, but multiplex owners do not agree with this, which makes it necessary for the government to intervene," it said. It asked if the multiplex owners would be able to treat the regional cinema in this way in West Bengal or in the southern states. "Tawde should have dealt strongly with multiplex owners and put across the government's viewpoint. If the government does not want further politics on this, it needs to stop dillydallying and promote the cause of Marathi-speakers," it added. The BJP-led government had come out with a directive that multiplexes must screen at least one Marathi film in the prime-time slot in the evening. The directive became controversial. Later, after discussions with the multiplex owners, the government decided to redefine the prime-time for screening Marathi films and consider three slots - 12 to 3 pm, 3 to 6 pm and 6 to 9 pm - for the shows.
PVR Introduces 4 DX PVR Ltd, announced a tie up with CJ 4DPLEX, the world’s first 4D cinema company at CinemaCon, Las Vegas. With this, PVR will launch 4 DX technology this year at their first Superplex, a 15 screen multiplex at Logix City Centre in Noida, India. From pioneering the multiplex culture in India to offering online ticketing services to launching a loyalty programme for movie-goers, PVR has been a company of many firsts. With this technology, movie enthusiasts will be able to witness an enthralling 4D experience. The 4 DX features include motion, wind, lightning, vibration, fog, rain, snow, rainstorm and scents that go far beyond 3D; it will offer a complete visual, aural, olfactory and tactile experience to cinema viewing. Addressing the media, Mr Gautam Dutta, CEO PVR Ltd. said, “India is a land of cinema lovers. The country has an immense potential to both produce and consume movies in various formats. Introducing 4DX will be another step to offer finest movie experience to our patrons here. PVR has always aimed to give the best to its audiences and we see a promising future for this technology in our country.” Mr Byun Hwan Choi, CEO of CJ 4DPLEX said, “Our partnership with PVR Ltd. is a great opportunity for 4DX to accelerate expansion in the world’s largest film - producing country. Being loved by the Indian moviegoers is a worthwhile challenge for us, and we are eager to achieve it. We look forward to a successful partnership with PVR.”
PVR, with its robust expansion plans, presently has more than 470 screens successfully running in the country and aims to cross the mark of 500 screens. As PVR expands its operations pan India, PVR is present over in India with 471 at 106 properties across 44 cities.
CCI Approves Big Cinemas Takeover Fair trade regulator the Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved Reliance MediaWork's sale of Big Cinemas to Carnival Films. In December 2014, Carnival Films Pvt. Ltd, backed by Kochi-based investor Shrikant Bhasi, signed a deal to acquire a 100% stake in multiplex operator Big Cinemas, an arm of the Anil Ambani-owned Reliance MediaWorks Ltd (RMW), for about 700 crore. Big Cinemas owned 252 screens. The CCI is learnt to have mentioned the deal does not raise anti-competitive concerns. The transaction, structured as a combination of transfer of debt of RMW and infusion of cash proceeds, will reduce Reliance Capital's leverage by approximately 700 crore. The deal excluded real estate property owned by RMW at IMAX Wadala and other properties, which will be separately monetised for an approximate value of 200 crore. As per the agreement, Reliance Capital will have the option to acquire a pre-IPO (initial public offering) minority stake in Carnival Cinemas at an appropriate discount, upon eventual listing of the company. In January, Carnival also had acquired Stargaze Entertainment from Network18 Media, increasing Carnival's total number of screens at 330, close to the 361 screens of INOX. Stargaze operates multiplexes in various cities under the brand name Glitz Cinemas.
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Film and Television Producers Guild on Entertainment Tax In the light of the legislative changes made by the Lok Sabha recently, to facilitate the introduction of the much-awaited Goods and Services Tax, the Film and Television Producers Guild of India points out that proposed Bill does not subsume all the taxes levied on the film sector. According to a statement released by Mukesh Bhatt, President of the Guild, "The industry strongly feels that the entertainment taxes levied by local bodies must be subsumed in the proposed GST regime. We fail to understand why the government intends to keep entertainment taxes levied by local bodies outside the GST even though entertainment tax levied by local bodies is miniscule."
PVR - India's Most Trusted Brand - 2015 On the basis of the recent 5th edition of the Brand Trust Report, PVR Ltd has come into sight as the most trusted brand of the year under the Entertainment category. PVR Ltd, the largest cinema exhibition company, now stands to be the number one company in the Cinema Display. The Brand Trust Report was conducted with 2373 influencer-respondents from 16 Indian cities across industry for two years. The results have been churned out from more than 450 filed personnel, devoting 13,000 hours of total research time. Nearly a collection 5 million data points and a study on 19000 unique brands, PVR emerging out as the most prominent multiplex chain proves its strong reach and influence over the patrons.
Inox Standalone Profit Surges 39% in Q4 Multiplex operator Inox Leisure has reported a 39.21 per cent increase in its standalone net profit to 2.13 crore for the fourth quarter ended March 2015. The company had posted a profit of 1.53 crore in the same period of the previous fiscal. Net sales were 184.24 crore during the quarter, up 2.70 per cent, against 179.38 crore last year. For the full year ended March 2015, net profit declined 32.95 per cent to 24.76 crore against 36.93 crore.
ShantaSriram to Invest 600 crore in Realty Projects ShantaSriram Constructions, a 20 year old realty company will invest over 600 crore in residential projects and multiplex-cum shopping malls in and around Hyderabad over the next 24 months. The funds will be raised through a combination of internal accruals as well as debt from banks and financial institutions. A total of 1,500 homes will be delivered, and two malls and multiplex projects will be completed as part of the eight new ventures, Chairman & Managing Director, M Narsaiah, announced. The closely held, Hyderabad-based company, which has built 5,000 homes over 8 million sq ft is nursing plans to further expand in Bengaluru and enter neighbouring Andhra Pradesh. At present, it has finished a residential project in Bengaluru, he told newspersons. During a difficult market in 2014, the company completed 5 projects, selling 500 flats.
urban infrastructure by the Telangana Government will push up realty in the coming year," Narsaiah added. Referring to the realty market, he said in the last 7-8 years, it was quite tough. But, the demand-supply situation has improved and there is scope for new ventures. "We are in the 30 lakhs to 1 crore segment and see positive trends," he said.
Nitesh Estates Acquires Koregaon Park Plaza Mall Nitesh Estates, a Bengaluru-based property developer, has acquired Koregaon Park Plaza Centre, an Agrade shopping mall spread over six acres in Pune. With this acquisition, Nitesh Estates now has a 2.2 million square feet shopping mall portfolio. The company is currently building a 1.2 million sq ft shopping mall in the upmarket locale of Indiranagar in Bengaluru. The Koregaon Park shopping mall can accommodate 130 retail stores, an extensive food court and can house around 1,000 cars in the parking space. The mall already has a PVR cinema with seven screens and a Spar supermarket along with brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Collective, MAC, Calvin Klein, US Polo, Swarovski and Crossword. Ashwini Kumar, Executive Director & COO, Nitesh Estates, said: "We are delighted to acquire this top quality asset and build our shopping portfolio."
"We are optimistic that the funding of 2,000 crores to the municipal bodies, Hyderabad Metro and other
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PVR Sangam Cinema
The Premium Boutique In an attempt to bring back to Delhi its lost sheen, PVR has converted the famous cinema theatre of its time, Sangam Cinema at RK Puram, into a completely premium boutique property. The cast and crew of Detective Byomkesh Bakshy inaugurated the property.
PVR, India's largest cinema exhibition chain has revived one of the oldest cinema theatres of South Delhi Sangam Cinema at RK Puram, New Delhi, keeping its essence and old vintage heritage intact. An iconic property of the 70s, Sangam Cinema which stands as an epitome of Bollywood industry has witnessed the changing phases of Indian cinema over decades. With this addition, PVR's screen count would become 140 in Delhi (NCR), making it the largest multiplex of the region. The launch of the property was also witnessed by the cast and crew of the upcoming movie Detective Byomkesh Bakshy. Actor Sushant Singh Rajput inaugurated and reopened the cinema for the people of Delhi. In an attempt to bring back to Delhi its lost sheen, PVR has converted the most famous cinema theatre of its time into a completely premium boutique property offering a worldclass experience. The cinema which is spread across an area of 13,000 sqft provides a seating of 392. The two screenplex is strategically located and caters to the elite patrons from Anand Niketan, Satya Niketan etc. While addressing the media, Mr Ajay Bijli, Chairman and Managing
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Director, PVR Ltd, said, "It's a matter of pride for us to take the onus of reviving the oldest and iconic property of Delhi. While re-launching the property, we ensured keeping its legacy intact. We realised given the mix of the right demographics and a high-quality viewing experience, there is a good chance of people appreciating our efforts. We hope our audience enjoys the movie watching experience with a completely new look and avatar of the multiplex." The newly-launched cinema has a distinct design where the artworks
and decor have been revamped to appeal to customers. The cinema is equipped with an exceptional digital movie experience, 7.1 channel sound and is 3D enabled with large screens, comfortable seating and a wide range of F&B. PVR, with its robust expansion plans, presently has more than 460 screens successfully running in the country and aims to cross the mark of 500 screens. As PVR expands its operations pan India, this launch takes PVR's screen count to 468 in 105 properties in 44 cities in the country. PVR is the largest and the most premium film and retail entertainment company in India. Since its inception in 1997, the brand has redefined the way people watch movies in India. PVR currently operates a cinema circuit comprising of 468 screens in 105 properties in 44 cities pan India. The company acquired the Cinemax properties in 2012 and currently serves 60 million patrons at PAN India level. Currently amongst the top 10 cinema companies in the world with respect to admissions per screen, PVR has entered the World Economic Forum's List of Fastest-Growing 'Global Growth Companies'.
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Raj Mandir Cinemas
Royal Cinema, Your Highness! Offering a royal cinematic experience to visitors since 1976, Raj Mandir Cinemas takes prides in its uniqueness as a grand heritage theatre in Jaipur. "There is nothing like Raj Mandir anywhere in the world. It is not a cinema. It is a tourist attraction. It is indeed the pride of India and we are proud of it." – BR Chopra Ever since 1976, Raj Mandir Cinemas, the heritage theatre in Jaipur, comprising a single screen, continues to allure audiences even today with its inherent grandeur and charm by offeringmovie watching experiencein a palatial setting. This heritage cinema site offers gigantic viewing and immersive experience to viewers with movies showcased on an exceptional screen size viz,
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73ft x 53ft with latest lighting systems and advanced sound technology. A walk-through experience at Raj Mandir Cinemas with KC Surana, Director, Surana Cine Venture Pvt Ltd, gives us an idea of the secret of success of this oriental single-screen theatre in India, despite the multiplex boom across the country. TheatreWorld congratulates Raj Mandir for upholding their beliefs and values in these changing times for their complete conviction towards single screen and bringing its majestic appeal to the audiences of today. Raj Mandir has no plans to
KC Surana Director, Surana Cine Venture Pvt Ltd
expand into a multiple-screen theatre in the near futureor to modernise its architectural settings to make it look like any other cinema hall in the years to come. This grand royal heritage theatre in Jaipur prides on its uniqueness.
The Visionary behind this Dream Heritage Theatre A brainchild of Shri Mehtab Chandji Golecha, Raj Mandir Cinemas transformed from a dream into reality through careful execution and planning by Bhuramal Rajmal Surana family, the famous jewellers of Jaipur. The concept behind building this huge royal cinema hall was to entice visitors to not just a cinematic experience but going beyond to offer a visual treat with grandeur in ambience and embellished decors. The theatre aims to offer royal experience to visitors with welcoming ambience to sooth senses and entice them to visit the theatre again and again. The Royal Grandsir decoration, glamour and the lighting effects have undisputedly positioned Raj Mandir as the nation's pride in Asia.
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arrangements could prove to be a minus point today, wherein audiences prefer watching movie seated an elevated level. However, at Raj Mandir there is only ground level entry and exit, with no stairs to climb thus helping the old and differentlyable to experience royal cinema watching with ease and comfort.
Ticking Strong Against Time Despite burgeoning multiplexes with modern architecture, what draws huge crowds across the nation and globally to this heritage cinema hall is the very fact that Raj Mandir has continued to maintain and retain its old charm,grandeur and finesse in cinema viewing experience over the years. "Traditional architecture is something that people miss when they visit a cinema hall, plus the royal welcome we offer to our guests on entry with shehnaiand pleasant fragrance contributes to the overall royalcinema watching experience at Raj Mandir," Surana explains with pride.
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As you enter the palatial setting at Raj Mandir, what catches your attention is the huge lobby which is as big as the size of an auditorium.
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The ground level of the auditorium plus the lobby has a seating capacity of 1100 seats. Absence of balcony seating
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The sound system is upgraded to 2D digital sound technology and projection system has a silver screen of Harkness Screens.
Royal Touch, Your Highness! Jaipur being famous for its gems and jewellery; there is a short story behind the "nine stars" on the exterior of the Raj Mandir and the "revolving panel" in the interior. Surana family being the traditional ancestor jewellers associated with the trading of gems since historic times, explain significance of the nine stars on the exterior of the façade with nine precious gemstones. The revolving panel in the interior has
two different faces thatchange according to the ambience look and feel.The lighting effects inside the cinema hall and in the lobby lend a whole new look when the audiences come out during intermission. The seating arrangement at Raj Mandir Cinemas is based on the theme of precious gems -- divided into three main classes namely Ruby, Emerald and Diamond. Each class is given equal importance and there is no differentiation between different classes/sections of society. Audiences get seated according to their rows and seat number allotted during booking confirmation. The unique concept of this ground level seating arrangement for all is to give a feeling of equal royal hospitality to every visitor at Raj Mandir, irrespective of the class of society they represent or belong to. During intermission, the lobby is spacious enough to accommodate all visitors on a single floor.
Only Hindi Movies Showcased at Raj Mandir Cherished Moments in Histoire many films have celebrated their platinum, gold and silver jubilee at Raj Mandir Cinemas like Hum Aapke Hain Kaun, Ram Teri Ganga Meli, Tarana and Beta to name just a few. KC Surana, Director of Raj Mandir Cinema quotes a note in the visitor's book penned by none other than Raj Kapoor, the showman of Indian cinema, who visited Raj Mandir for the golden jubilee celebration of Ram Teri Ganga Meli: "I wish other exhibitors of India learn from Raj Mandir on how to exhibit a film."
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Cinépolis Viviana
Second Biggest Megaplex in the Country! Cinépolis brings India's most technologically advanced cinema in Thane, crossing the 100-screen landmark in the country with 14 screens at Viviana Mall. Cinépolis, the world's 4th largest and India's 1st international exhibitor, launched the 2nd biggest megaplex in India with 14 screens at Viviana Mall, Thane. With this multiplex, Cinépolis will be operating 110 screens across India, making it the fastest brand to cross the 100-screen landmark organically. This megaplex is the most technologically-advanced cinema with six concepts under one roof viz. Cinépolis VIP, IMAX, 4DX, Dolby Atmos, RealD 3D and 4K projection system. With this theatre, Cinépolis is introducing 4DX to India which provides a fully immersive movie experience with a real simulation of effects like motion seats, water, wind, fog, lightening and scents that enhance what one views on the screen. The other revolutionary concepts that the theatre encompasses include the Cinépolis VIP that reinvents entertainment with full leather recliners, in-theatre restaurant apart from the existing service on-seat. It is also the first Cinépolis property to have a fully-equipped IMAX Screen.In addition, another auditorium in the complex is
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equipped with Dolby Atmos, which employs up to 64 speakers to heighten the realism of every scene. Patrons can also enjoy freshlyprepared gourmet food at the in-house coffee shop, Coffee Tree, in the lobby of Cinépolis.
Additionally, the state-of-the-art 3D technology from Real-D systems is the world's most widely deployed 3D technology and offers viewers the most enthralling 3D movie watching experience and has an exclusive tieup with Cinépolis in India. Movie goers can also enjoy benefits of Club Cinépolis, the company's loyalty programme at the theatre in Viviana Mall. Javier Sotomayor, Managing Director, Cinépolis India said: "Cinépolis is committed to offering the best cinema experience to movie goers in India. With this goal in mind, we have introduced unparalleled concepts in the country such as IMAX, 4DX,exclusive RealD 3D, Dolby Atmos sound to name a few. Thanks to these features, the Cinépolis brand has quickly marked its niche in the country and has been able to garner widespread loyalty. Cinépolis pioneered the concept of luxury cinemas and the largest operator of luxury cinemas worldwide. We are glad to bring the same to India. This is our second Cinepolis VIP property in India, which will provide a superior movie viewing experience to the discerning audience.
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Megaplexes such as these enable us to bring all these different concepts under one roof. We can also provide flexibility to our patrons to watch their favourite shows at their preferred timings. We thank Mr. Ashwin Sheth and his team for the opportunity to be able to gift to the people of Thane this great megaplex at Viviana Mall, Thane. On the back of this success, we aim to reach the 400-screen landmark by 2017."
Speaking about the growth plans of Cinépolis, Ashish Shukla, Director Expansion, Cinépolis India said, "Thought leadership, product leadership and megaplexes is Cinépolis's commitment to India. The Viviana Megaplex, Mumbai's largest, is a must visit for all Thanekars and Mumbaikars. With this 110th screen launching within 5 years of our operations, Cinépolis continues to be the fastest organically growing company in
India, on an average 2 screens per month. We will continue to bring the best which the world has to offer to India first. 4DX as an experiential cinema will change the way movie goers watch movies in India. We look forward to building Megaplexes like the Viviana Mall across the country in partnerships with leading developers. Visit soon, and enjoy the amazing experience." Devang Sampat, Business Head Strategy, Cinépolis India shared, "At Cinépolis, our constant endeavour is to deliver unmatched levels of customer service. With the introduction of 4DX in India, we have set a new, unprecedented benchmark in the realm of movie watching experience in the country. Patrons can also enjoy gourmet food offerings at Coffee Tree and benefit
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• INDIA PLEXING • from the Cinépolis club membership, where movie goers can register for free and start accumulating reward points for every purchase made at the Cinépolis Box Office. These points can be later redeemed for free tickets. Club Cinépolis members have the lifetime opportunity to meet and greet their favourite Bollywood and Hollywood stars. We would focus on programming as wide variety of content as possible to suit the demands from all the different segments. We intend to showcase niche content which hasn't been able to come to the silver screen earlier." Ashwin N. Sheth, MD, Sheth Corp Pvt. Ltd. (Promoters of Viviana Mall) said,"In a short span of a year, Viviana has reset benchmarks with its vibrant retail offerings and unique consumer experientials. With the launch of Cinepolis, we have sealed our position among the country's premium destinations for entertainment, shopping, dining and other recreational activities." Apart from Thane, Cinépolis currently operates at Mumbai, Vadodara, Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Bengaluru, Patna, Surat, Ludhiana, Jaipur, Bhopal, Hubli, Hyderabad, Thane, Mangalore and Vijaywada. Starting in 2009, Cinépolis has become the fastest in India to reach the landmark of over 100 screens with a total of 21,500 seats.
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• TECHNOLOGY •
Jai Ho! Democracy
Satirical Comedy Gets Immersive Adding to the growing line of movies released in Auro 11.1 by Barco, Jai Ho! Democracy, a satirical comedy, is yet another film fully mixed in the threelayered sound technology. Barco, a global industry leader in digital cinema technology, announced that the recently-released Jai Ho! Democracy, a satirical comedy, was fully mixed in the Auro 11.1 three-layered sound technology. The comedy by director Ranjit Kapoor and producer Bikramjeet Bhullar is the latest in the growing line of movies released in Auro 11.1 by Barco and underpins the success of the sound format in Bollywood and beyond. Produced by Indian Production House, Jai Ho! Democracy is an offbeat production in every aspect. The story features no real heroes or heroines, and it even hasn't got any songs in it. Instead of relying on a mega budget and a star-studded Bollywood cast, director Ranjit Kapoor and Bikramjeet Bhullar counted on seasoned theatre actors like his brother Annu Kapoor and Om Puri to bring this satirical comedy to life.
With heated committee discussions driving the storyline to a hilarious climax, the sound mixing proved key in the production of the movie. Bikramjeet Singh Bullar, who teamed up with Ranjit Kapoor to produce Jai Ho! Democracy: "We really wanted the dialogues to shine. That's why the Auro3D sound format was an obvious choice. With sound coming from all around and above them, moviegoers are drawn into the story and really feel like they are part of the action unfolding on-screen." The Auro 11.1 system by Barco uses a three-layered - width, depth and height - speaker layout to create a lifelike and immersive acoustic experience in movie theatres. The 3D sound format enables directors and producers to let sound waves come
from every direction, giving audiences a truly immersive experience. Ever since its release onto the market, movie producers and theatre owners alike have been embracing the Auro 3D sound format. While more and more theatres across India and beyond are being equipped with the technology, the number of movies mixed in the format keeps on growing as well. Jai Ho! Democracy follows other well-received Bollywood productions like Kochadaiiyaan (2014) and Chaar Sahibzaade (2014), and awardwinning Hollywood blockbusters such as American Sniper (2014) and The Hunger Games - Mockingjay Part 1 (2014).
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