Chandan Talkies, Mumbai’s Last Single-Screen Cinema, Demolished in Juhu
Chandan Talkies, a beloved single-screen cinema in Juhu, has been demolished, marking the end of an era for Mumbai’s film culture.
Chandan Talkies, Mumbai, Cinema, Single-Screen, Entertainment
Juhu: The iconic Chandan Talkies, the last single-screen cinema in the area, has been torn down after closing its doors in 2017. It’s a real bummer for movie lovers.
Sameer Joshi, the owner, shared that the cinema struggled with attendance. He mentioned that not many films appeal to the masses anymore. With a 650-seat capacity, it was tough to fill even 100 seats.
He also pointed out how streaming services like Netflix and Amazon have changed the game. “People are choosing to stay home for entertainment,” he said, and it’s hard to argue with that.
Sameer expressed frustration over the lack of government support for single-screen cinemas. Despite having modern amenities, he feels the focus is more on taxes than on helping businesses adapt.
Trade analyst Amod Mehra reminisced about his visits to Chandan, which opened in 1973. He believes the government should step in to help preserve these cultural gems.
For locals, Chandan was special. Shadab Shaikh, an auto-rickshaw driver, remembered it as the last affordable cinema around. “The energy there was unmatched,” he said, recalling the lively crowds.
With Chandan Talkies gone, Mumbai has lost a piece of its cultural history, leaving many moviegoers feeling nostalgic.