Pune: Marathi Films Find Support in Non-Traditional Theatres Amid Screening Challenges
Erandwane, 25th November 2024: A unique initiative is being undertaken to address the challenges Marathi films face in securing prime-time slots and retaining screenings in cinema halls due to low audience turnout. As part of this effort, two daily screenings of the film Hya Goshtila Navach Nahi (2024) have been organised at the experimental theatre ‘The Box’ in Pune’s Erandwane for four days, from 25th to 28th November. This marks a potential new approach to promoting Marathi films.
Marathi films, particularly artistic productions with limited commercial viability, often struggle to secure and sustain screenings in traditional theatres. Theatre owners typically decide the film’s fate based on the audience response during the first two days, leading to frequent cancellations if bookings are insufficient. This situation highlights the need for alternative solutions to support Marathi cinema.
Theatre artist Pradeep Vaidya has offered his experimental theatre complex, The Box, as a venue for such screenings. Speaking about this initiative, Vaidya said, “We aim to utilise the free time in the theatre for film screenings, starting with Hya Goshtila Navach Nahi.” The film’s writer and director, Sandeep Sawant, along with producers Dr. Satishkumar Patil and Dr. Anjali Patil, supported the idea.
Vaidya added, “We have previously organised screenings of films like Shwaas (2004) and Nadi Vahate (2017) across various locations in the state. This initiative is a continuation of those efforts.” By showcasing Marathi films in non-traditional spaces like experimental theatres, such efforts could pave the way for broader opportunities and greater visibility for regional cinema in the future.
