Single-screen cinemas were once the lifeblood of Assam’s cinematic culture, bringing communities together to share stories on the silver screen. However, in the past few decades, these iconic theaters have faced a steep decline, struggling to keep up with modern demands and competition.

A Once-Thriving Industry

At its peak, Assam had over 100 single-screen theaters spread across the state, serving as hubs of entertainment for moviegoers. They were not only places to watch films but also community spaces where people celebrated art, culture, and togetherness.

The Decline

Today, the picture looks grim. According to recent estimates, fewer than 50 single-screen cinemas remain operational in the state. Many iconic theaters have already shut their doors:

●        Kelvin, Apsara, Meghdoot, Udeshna, and Vandana: Once household names in Guwahati, these cinemas are now part of history, unable to survive the financial strain and changing entertainment preferences.

●        JyotiChitraban Studio: Once a cultural hub for filmmakers, this space is now a shadow of its former self.

Challenges Leading to Closure

1. Competition from Multiplexes: Modern multiplexes, with their comfortable seating, air-conditioned halls, and advanced sound systems, have drawn audiences away from single screens.
2. Lack of Modernization: Many single-screen theaters could not afford upgrades to digital projection and sound systems, making them less appealing to today’s tech-savvy audience.
3. COVID-19 Impact: The pandemic delivered a devastating blow, forcing prolonged closures. Many theaters, already struggling, couldn’t recover.
4. OTT Platforms: The rise of streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime has drastically reduced footfall in theaters, especially for regional films.

Government Initiatives for Revival

Recognizing the cultural and economic significance of single-screen cinemas, the Government of Assam has launched various measures to support and revitalize them:

1. Financial Subsidies: In 2020, the government introduced a subsidy scheme to encourage the establishment of new cinema halls and the renovation of existing ones. Under this scheme:

○        A subsidy of up to ₹75 lakh was offered for new cinema halls.

○        ₹25 lakh was allocated for renovating existing theaters.

○        ₹50 lakh was provided for reopening closed cinema halls.

2. Boost to Assamese Cinema: The 2024 budget included a grant of ₹10 lakh to full-fledged Assamese cinemas to encourage big-screen Assamese productions. Additionally, ₹25 crore was earmarked to support the construction of 50 new cinema halls with financial assistance to NGOs, cultural organizations, and private stakeholders.
3. Tax Exemptions: Tax exemptions have been provided under the Assam Amusement and Betting Tax (Amendment) Act, 2013, to encourage the development of permanent multiplexes and mini cinema halls.

These initiatives aim to modernize the state’s cinema infrastructure while preserving its cultural legacy.

Cultural Loss

The closure of single-screen cinemas is not just an economic issue; it is a cultural loss. These theaters were a window into Assamese cinema, a place where local filmmakers could showcase their work and connect with audiences.

Hope for Revival

Despite the challenges, there is hope. Some theaters, like Anuradha Cinema in Guwahati, have survived by modernizing and adapting to the changing times. However, the survival of others depends on sustained support from the government, industry stakeholders, and local communities.

Conclusion

The decline of single-screen cinemas in Assam is a reflection of broader changes in the entertainment industry. However, with targeted initiatives from the government and efforts from the private sector, these iconic cinemas have a chance to regain their place in the cultural landscape of Assam. Preserving these theaters is essential, not just for entertainment but also as a testament to Assam’s rich cinematic heritage.