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| Photo: Kashmir Observer |
Jammu and Kashmir got its first-ever multiplex in Srinagar, which will be permanently stationed and the latest movies will be released for people of Kashmir to experience the same recreational facilities as they get in the rest of the country. The multiplex designed by INOX, one of the top companies, will be opened to the public in September after some final touches to it.
This multiplex at Shivpora area of Srinagar has three movie theatres with a combined seating capacity of at least 520 people. The most recent sound systems are installed, and it is exquisitely crafted.
After receiving some finishing touches, the INOX multiplex will be thrown open to public at Sonwar area here.
The multiplex’s numerous food courts and other entertainment options will also draw in kids.
“It was actually my parents Mrs Tirender and Mr Vijay Dhar, who started the initiative with an aim to ensure the facilities for entertainment to the children of Kashmir like others across the world,” Vikas Dhar, owner of multiplex cinema told news agency KNO.
The goal of restoring cinema in Kashmir, according to the owner of INOX multiplex in Srinagar, Vijay Dhar, is to provide younger generations with the same amusement available throughout the nation. “This is for everyone so that they can all take pleasure in the entertainment. Our children should be content. They must shout and scream as well. There is nowhere one can receive a dose of amusement, he remarked, with the exception of sports and food.
The three auditoriums in the INOX-designed multiplex can accommodate 520 people. For improved audio, Dolby sound systems are installed, he added.
Dhar said apart from modern facilities, the design of the multiplex will have a tinge of Kashmiri culture in the form of a paper-mache and khatamband ceiling. The local cuisine will also be promoted through food courts.
“We are slightly modifying the design element and incorporating a Kashmiri touch along with cutting-edge infrastructure. In order to increase the popularity of our local cuisine, we also hope to support and encourage local food entrepreneurs,” he said.
“We will employ qualified locals to run the business. Our own local Kashmiri brand should be promoted.”
“The Indian film industry and Bollywood particularly has a heart-to-heart connection with Kashmir. We will be able to bridge that gap so that connection will be revived. The feeling of sitting in a cinema hall and letting go of your fears and tensions is unique. We would love for that freedom to come back,” he added.
He further said that the Central and UT governments have been extremely cooperative for the project to come up.
The father-son duo is also coming up with another project that is a fun zone facility in Kashmir for people from 2-year-old onwards. In the project, various gaming facilities including video games and bowling alleys will be there. The project is in the design stage yet.
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With inputs from multiple sources.
