Vinayaka Theatre, the last remaining single-screen talkies in Kundapur, has concluded its operations following its final screening.
Once vibrant with four single-screen cinema halls, Kundapur’s theatres were a Saturday staple, attracting crowds, especially during the famous Kundapur fair, when attendees would often linger to catch a movie, packing the cinema to its capacity.
However, with the advent of OTT platforms and multiplex cinemas, sustaining Vinayaka Talkies became increasingly challenging. The theatre, inaugurated with Dr. Rajkumar’s “Kavirathna Kalidasa,” culminated its journey with Challenging Star Darshan’s “Katera.”
Established in 1983 by K. Ramachandra Rao of Kundapur, the inauguration witnessed notable personalities like Sripathi Rao of Arvind Motors, Mangaluru, along with Kundapur MLA K. Prathapchandra Shetty, Byndoor MLA B. Appanna Hegde, and others. The debut film screened was the iconic “Kavirathna Kalidasa” starring matinee idol Dr. Rajkumar.
Initially, accommodating 250 seats across first and second classes, and a balcony with 176 seats, ticket prices ranged from Rs 2.80 to Rs 3.25. Over time, ticket rates escalated to Rs 80 for first class and Rs 100 for the balcony.
Pushparaj, who managed the theatre for approximately 41 years following his father’s demise, reminisced about the challenges they faced. Despite enduring financial setbacks, he strived to keep the theatre operational. However, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic dealt a severe blow, leading to the inevitable decision to close its doors.
Reflecting on the journey, Pushparaj shared, “My father invested Rs 30 lakhs to build the theatre. I recall assisting him during construction, cycling to water the concrete. We worked tirelessly, from repairing seats to handling various tasks. We enjoyed success screening Dr. Rajkumar’s films, but dwindling audiences post-pandemic left us with no choice but to cease operations.”
