Single-screen theatres have always held a special place in the hearts of movie lovers. In India, especially in the South, many audiences still prefer the unmatched energy of watching films in these iconic halls. But in recent years, several single-screen theatres have been shutting down for various reasons. Now, Bengaluru’s famous Urvashi Theatre has joined that list.
Bengaluru’s iconic 1,100+ seater Urvashi Theatre has officially shut its doors
Over the years, the theatre witnessed some remarkable box office milestones:
- All-time highest grosser: Baahubali 2: The Conclusion
- Highest Day-1 grosser: KGF: Chapter 2
- Most ₹1 crore grossers by an actor: Rajinikanth (3 films)
The theatre was known for its electrifying atmosphere with non-stop whistles, deafening cheers, relentless celebrations, and houseful shows day after day. For many fans, watching a film at Urvashi was more than entertainment; it was an experience.
The closure comes after a long property dispute. The lease agreement with the landowners, Basetty Trust, expired in 2018, which led to a legal battle. The Karnataka High Court ruled in favor of the landowners and ordered the demolition of the theatre by February 15, 2026.
Urvashi Theatre’s shutdown reflects the larger challenges faced by single-screen cinemas across the country, marking the end of yet another cherished chapter in India’s cinematic history.