Sampige Theatre, Bengaluru's Iconic Cinema Hall, To Close After 50 Years. Here's Why

Another well-known Bengaluru single-screen institution, Sampige Theatre, is set to close down as its management has decided to shut its doors.

The iconic cinema, located in Malleshwaram, has been a central hub for high-energy Kannada movie premieres for over 50 years.

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The theatre's management is reportedly seeking buyers to sell the property, according to Deccan Herald.

Reasons for the Closure

The decision to shut down Sampige Theatre comes as the management faces financial difficulties, compounded by the rising maintenance costs. The decline in film revenues and the growing dominance of multiplexes have led to a drop in demand for single-screen theatres.

Ramesh Nadubeedi Venkatesh, a partner in the theatre's ownership, stated, "Good films that generate revenues to all parties involved are rare. It is tough to run on a single screen in this movie economy. The ticket prices that are not more than ₹200 are not helping us to sustain."

Sampige Theatre, which opened its doors in 1976 with the screening of 'Makkala Baghya', has seen the likes of legendary actors such as Dr. Rajkumar and Rajinikanth visiting regularly. However, the theatre will continue to operate until a buyer finalises a deal for the prime real estate.

Earlier this year, Cauvery Theatre, another prominent landmark on Sankey Road, Bengaluru, also shut down, making way for a commercial complex.

The Cauvery Theatre, which opened in 1974, held its final screenings in April 2024, with Hindi films 'Bade Miyan Chote Miyan' and 'Maidaan' marking its last shows. Local audiences reminisced about the golden days of Bengaluru cinema during the theatre's final days.