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Kolkata Cinemas Go Dark: Business Slump Shuts Single Screens
26 Feb
Summary
- Several Kolkata single-screen cinemas suspended shows due to low footfall.
- Theater owners cite poor content and rising operating costs as reasons.
- Indie directors are exploring alternative venues like community centers.
Several single-screen cinemas in Kolkata have recently suspended screenings, raising concerns about the state of the film exhibition industry. Priya Cinema suspended all four shows on Thursday, February 26, 2026, because low business made operations financially unviable. Owner Arijit Dutta highlighted that operating costs exceeded earnings and criticized the lack of consistent, quality content, particularly from contemporary Bengali filmmakers who often target festival weeks.
Other cinema owners also cited renovations as the reason for temporary closures. Navina Theatre closed from February 27 to March 17, 2026, for extensive maintenance, including electrical, air-conditioning, civil, and seating work. Binodini Theatre (formerly Star) was shut for two days prior to reopening on Friday, February 27, 2026, for necessary maintenance.
Meanwhile, independent directors are opting for unconventional venues. Director Pradipta Bhattacharya bypassed traditional cinemas for his film 'Nodhorer Bhela,' choosing to screen it in play auditoria and community centers. This approach was driven by limited promotional funds, high uploading and distribution costs for conventional releases, and a desire to reach audiences who appreciate his content in areas without cinemas.
