Launched just after Independence, this charming single-screen in UP gets ready to catch up with the times
Pradesh saw the opening of a new entertainment hub. The first cinema hall in the region, Vijay cinema is still the most lovable single-screen in Saharanpur.
Kalicharan Sharma, the manager, says: “Our premises are well-maintained and the staff are very friendly and offer our patrons great service. The preview area will be refurbished in 2012 and chairs in all classes will be improved to make people more comfortable.”
Outside, there’s parking for both two-wheelers and cars. On the inside, the building is plain yet chic, with wooden panels on the walls and marble flooring. Movie posters are placed in a glass case on the walls, which showcase films currently playing.
Screening the recent releases, Vijay also screens English films dubbed in Hindi to cater to a wider audience. The cinema has a total capacity of 798, which is further divided into balcony (166), box (18), upper stall (372) and second stall (242). Tickets are priced between Rs 25 and Rs 70 for Hindi films and Rs 20 and Rs 60 for English dubbed films.
Equipped with a Dolby digital sound system and a huge screen, Vijay is not exactly cutting-edge in terms of the technology. But considering the township, this single-screen is an exciting hub to while away one’s time.
The cinema has changed its appearance and now wears a lively look. With a chic facade, the complex lights up gaily at night. The lobby is subtle and bathes the building in a pleasant ambience.
An added attraction is the concession stand, where patrons can snack on munchies such as popcorn, puffs, sandwiches and a variety of beverages.
Despite other single-screens in the vicinity, Vijay has a loyal fan following. Catering mainly to the family audience, it also caters to the youth and offers varied genres of films for its customers.
“We are planning to change our movie playing system soon and renovation is on the cards as well,” says Sharma. “We plan to show the latest releases but only after we change the technology we use. It is a chance we have to take.”
