Gaiety-Galaxy Shut: 2 Months On, Bollywood Silent

As of November 6, 2026, Mumbai's renowned Gaiety-Galaxy cinema complex has been shuttered for two months. The prolonged closure, initiated on September 7, 2026, began as a minor dispute that escalated after police intervention. Authorities discovered the theatre's license had not been renewed since the 2021-22 period, leading to a directive for its closure due to non-compliance.

Film lovers and industry members are astonished that the issue remains unresolved after nearly two months. The Gaiety-Galaxy, known for its lively audience reactions, missed screenings for recent major films. Meanwhile, executive director Manoj Desai and his team are actively working on the government-related procedure, which is reportedly taking time.

Desai is commendable for paying full salaries to employees despite zero revenue from the G7 complex since September 7, 2026. However, the lack of support from Bollywood celebrities has drawn criticism. Many actors who gained stardom from the theatre's fan reactions have offered no public support or comment on the ongoing closure.

The Gaiety-Galaxy, established on November 24, 1972, with Ramesh Sippy's 'Seeta Aur Geeta' as its inaugural film, originally housed three theatres: Gaiety, Galaxy, and Gemini. Over time, four additional theatres were added, expanding its capacity and offerings.