Mangaluru: Bharath Cinemas has added another milestone to its growth journey after being honoured with the prestigious “Regional Emerging Cinema Chain of the Year” award at the IMAX Big Cine Awards 2026, held as part of the Big Cine Expo in Chennai on August 18.

The award was received by Bala Shetty, director of Bharath Cinemas, on behalf of the organisation. The recognition celebrates the cinema chain’s efforts to bring modern entertainment experiences, advanced technology and quality movie viewing facilities to audiences across Karnataka, particularly in emerging Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.

The honour marks an important achievement for Bharath Cinemas, which has steadily expanded its presence across the region by focusing on modern cinema infrastructure beyond major metropolitan markets.

Recognition for regional expansion

The IMAX Big Cine Awards 2026 recognised notable achievements and emerging excellence in the Indian cinema exhibition industry. Bharath Cinemas was selected for the regional honour in recognition of its growing presence and continued focus on delivering quality entertainment experiences to audiences in developing urban markets.

Over the years, the cinema chain has worked towards making advanced cinematic experiences accessible to audiences across different parts of Karnataka. Its expansion strategy has focused on cities and communities where modern multiplex infrastructure and premium movie-viewing facilities are gradually gaining greater demand.

The award reflects Bharath Cinemas’ consistent efforts to combine the latest cinema technology with affordability and customer-focused services.

As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, cinema operators are increasingly focusing on improving the overall experience of audiences. Modern projection systems, high-quality sound, comfortable seating and contemporary ambience have become important aspects of cinema exhibition.

Bharath Cinemas has sought to incorporate these features while expanding its footprint in regional markets.

Focus on modern cinema experience

The cinema chain has been steadily expanding its presence by combining state-of-the-art projection and sound technology with comfortable seating and contemporary auditoriums.

The company has also focused on maintaining affordability while offering audiences a modern cinema experience. This approach has helped Bharath Cinemas strengthen its position in emerging markets, where demand for improved entertainment infrastructure continues to grow.

The focus on Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities has been a significant part of the organisation’s journey. While major metropolitan cities have traditionally had access to a wide range of premium cinema options, smaller cities and towns are also witnessing increasing demand for technologically advanced and comfortable movie theatres.

By expanding into such markets, Bharath Cinemas aims to take world-class cinema experiences closer to audiences in different communities.

The latest recognition further highlights the growing importance of regional cinema exhibition chains in India’s entertainment ecosystem.

Bala Shetty calls award a proud moment

Speaking on the occasion, Bala Shetty said the recognition was a proud moment for the entire Bharath Cinemas family and acknowledged the collective efforts behind the achievement.

“This recognition is a proud moment for the entire Bharath Cinemas family. It is a reflection of the dedication and hard work of our entire team, our technology partners and most importantly the continued trust and support of our audiences,” he said.

He added that the organisation would continue its efforts to expand access to high-quality cinema experiences.

“We remain committed to taking world-class cinema experiences to more cities and communities,” Bala Shetty said.

The director also credited the continued support of audiences and the contributions of the organisation’s team and technology partners for the recognition.

The award, therefore, represents not only the growth of the cinema chain but also the efforts of the people involved in developing and maintaining its cinema infrastructure and services.

Strengthening its position in Karnataka

Bharath Cinemas is a growing cinema exhibition brand with a presence across multiple locations in Karnataka. The organisation has focused on developing premium and modern cinematic experiences while maintaining customer-centric services.

Its approach includes the use of the latest available cinema technology, comfortable auditoriums and contemporary facilities designed to improve the overall movie-going experience.

The company is also working towards expanding quality cinema infrastructure in emerging markets, allowing audiences outside major metropolitan centres to access modern entertainment facilities.

The IMAX Big Cine Awards 2026 recognition further strengthens Bharath Cinemas’ position as an emerging regional cinema chain in the Indian exhibition industry.

With the cinema sector continuing to adapt to changing audience expectations, the demand for advanced technology, comfort and improved services is becoming increasingly important. Bharath Cinemas’ expansion into Tier-2 and Tier-3 markets reflects this changing landscape and the growing potential of regional audiences.

The “Regional Emerging Cinema Chain of the Year” award is another significant milestone for the organisation as it continues its expansion journey across Karnataka.

The recognition at the Big Cine Expo in Chennai also underlines the company’s commitment to combining technology, comfort, affordability and customer service while taking quality entertainment experiences to more cities and communities in the coming years.