Concerned over the increasing misuse of the ambience at cinema halls by the gutka chewers and smokers, the management of Navarang theatre in the city has decided to keep them at bay and ensure that the environs remained Swachh everyday.
Strewn gutka sachets, burnt cigarette butts near staircases and defaced walls with gutka graffiti, despite the presence of spittoons are the perennial problems faced by theatre managements for ages. “These unhealthy conditions are forcing viewers to move over to swanky multiplexes, though they are charging more,” said theatre proprietor R.V. Bhupal Prasad.
In order to put an end to these problems, the management has a put tiles on the walls — for both aesthetic look and easy maintenance. “Even if anyone spits gutka, we can easily wipe it out. Of course we will continue to put the sign boards and deploy staff asking them to desist from spoiling the interior of the theatre with their appalling acts,” said Mr Bhupal Prasad.
Plans have also been drawn up to replace old furniture with latest ones. “Better sanitation reflects the reputation of the theatre. Considering it as one of the important aspects, we are taking up refurbishing works at a cost of around Rs. 3 lakh. Our intention is to provide the best mood to the viewers. Efforts are also on to give a facelift to the washrooms,” he explained.
The management has installed 18 surveillance cameras to keep a tab on those indulging in mischievous ‘unhealthy’ activities. These cameras will cover every nook and corner of the hall. “We can store the footage for two months for verification,” Mr. Prasad. Constructed in 1964, the theatre, presently, have a capacity of 607 seats. It was once a popular destination for movie buffs who enjoyed watching Hollywood blockbusters. “In the advent of the city in the threshold of creating history as the capital city, the move by the theatre is worth appreciating,” said a diehard movie buff.
The theatre management has a put tiles on the walls — for both aesthetic look and easy maintenance
