At Kolkata’s Priya Cinema, it is not only the movies that make for a memorable experience but much more
Just last week, Box Office India showcased vintage class with Kolkata’s Star Cinema, an enterprise of Priya Entertainments. In keeping with the luxurious heritage theme, we bring you Priya Cinema this week, another single screen owned by the same company. Dedicated to culture, Priya has been standing tall in South Kolkata since 1959 and will celebrate it’s 51st birthday on May 22, 2010.
Over the years, Priya Cinema has been credited with introducing state-of-the-art technological features before any other cineplex. It was the first in Eastern India to introduce computerised and then online ticket booking. Also it was the first to adopt the Dolby Theatre System, Xenon Christie projector, pushback seats and the sophisticated Qube Digital Projection System.
Managing Director, Arijit Dutta says, “Such is the persona of this plush single screen that if a Hindi or Bengali film releases here, no multiplex can hope to achieve its revenue. This confidence and attitude has kept the place running successfully for many years.”The theatre is spread across 30,000 square feet. Besides movies, the hall is also made available for stage shows and musical events.
The Screen:
No platinum lounge. With a seating capacity of 849, the cinema hall has two classes each – Stalls and Balcony. The seats and walls are dipped in vibrant blue, lending the interiors a starry yet mystical aura. A full-screen panorama of the sky painted on the ceiling adds to the striking ambience.
Price Range:
Balcony:
Rs 100 and Rs 125. Stalls: Rs 50, Rs 60 and Rs 70.
Food Court:
With a concession stand on each storey – first and second – patrons can enjoy delectable snacks such as samosas, patties, sandwiches and cold drinks. Striped hoods make these booths look a lot like candy-floss stalls.
Lobby Area:
Priya Cinema’s signature lobby leaves an indelible mark on anyone who enters its portals. A talking point, the vestibule has a vintage car parked in a corner, which welcomes movie-buffs. The old-style decor peels back the years, and an array of arches in the lobby lends it a spacious and roomy air.
Priya is an old structure but offers the 21st century movie-goer a truly enjoyable viewing experience!
