Single-screens hold off property conversion offers despite losses

Many theatres hesitate to accept offers due to unfavourable revenue-sharing terms, passion for the film business

- Lata Jha

Single-screen cinemas in small towns in the Hindi-speaking belt are continually receiving offers from developers to convert their properties into banquet halls, shopping malls and coaching centres as the theatrical business fails to deliver returns.

Original Hindi movies, barring period drama Chhaava, barely brought any returns at the box office over the past few months. This comes on the heels of a steep decline in business in 2024 from a year ago.

While some single-screen theatres are open to diversifying to other streams, their executives say it is difficult to add eateries or entertainment zones because the developers don't offer them favourable terms. Many others are holding off from converting their properties for now, given their passion for the film business.