The famous movie theatre ‘Shanthi’ in Anna Salai to be demolished!
Posted on: 18/Dec/2014 2:39:09 PM
Shanthi Theatre, one of the most popular theatres in Chennai, located in Anna Salai, is 53 years old.
Famous film actor Sivaji Ganesan bought this theatre in the year 1962.
Most of the movies with Sivaji Ganesan in the lead role were released in this theatre during the 60’s to 80’s. The theatre was usually full thanks to the patronisation of Sivaji Ganesan fans.
The theatre was original built by Mr. G. Umapathy. He also owned another theatre in Anna Salai, Anand.
Shanthi theatre was inaugurated by the then Chief Minister, Mr. K. Kamaraj.
‘Thooya Ullam’ was the first movie to be released in this theatre.
Shanthi theatre was renovated in 2005. Superstar Rajinikanth’s blockbuster movie, ‘Chandramukhi’ was released here running for 888 days!
The movie ‘Karnan’, with Sivaji Ganesan in the title role, was converted into digital format and released here. It ran for 50 days.
Over the last few years, many theatres in Chennai, including Paragon, Chithra, Wellington, Alankar, Anand, Safire, Blue Diamond, Emerald, Sun, Gaiety, Uma, Mekala, Roxy, Bhuvanesvari, Vasanthi, Rajakumari, and Nagesh have been demolished and converted to multi-storeyed residential complexes.
Now, Shanthi theatre is also going to be demolished to be converted into a commercial complex. This new complex may have 4 mini theatres. Construction activities are set to start soon.
