Yakut Mahal Theatre Since 1930

Yakut Mahal Theatre was Built in late 1930s, In the congested lanes of Yakutpura old city Hyderabad

it was among the most sought after theatre and received patronage from common man and also connoisseur of the time alike. The 80 year plus theatre still retains the quaint ambience and if its hall has audience transported in time, its projector room is worth a visit.

The projection is done through two projectors, Peerless Magnarac Machine Projectors manufactured by J.E.McAuley of Chicago way back in the year 1927 and said to have been installed in the year 1938. “Initially the screen was flat and later changed to cinemascope,” says Syed Saleem, a senior projection staff.

During early days, the theatre had different section demarcated for women and properly curtained. A separate box was meant for dignitaries and was said to have been occasionally occupied by the rulers of the time. “Old timers used to recall that Nizam Sarkar would come in his automobile and take the seat in the special enclosure,” he says.

“Then it was also a favoured spot for Nawabs and the special enclosure was never said to be vacant,” says Akhtar Sharfan of the family which owns the theatre now. Four years back, it was refurbished thoroughly with latest seating and other paraphernalia while not disturbing the edifice or its character.

Many from these parts of the city who have settled in the US and Europe drop in to catch up with nostalgia whenever they are home. “We give them memorabilia and complementary gifts to commemorate their visit back,” says Akhtar.

The 565 seater theatre is set for the release of Super Star Rajinikanth's "Kabaali". “Even when old movies are screened, there is a good crowd since not many theatres in the city show them these days,” says Saleem.

( Video Recorded On 1st May 2018 )
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   • Yakut Mahal Theatre Since 1930