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Tag: Sanjeev Kumar Bijli

  • Red Lorry Film Festival announces esteemed jury for 2025 Competition Segment

    Red Lorry Film Festival announces esteemed jury for 2025 Competition Segment

    MUMBAI: The spotlight is set, the reels are ready, and the magic of cinema is about to unfold once again.

    The Red Lorry Film Festival, India’s premier international celebration of storytelling, makes a grand return in 2025, promising a cinematic extravaganza like no other.

    With its second edition slated for 21–23 March 2025, the festival unveils a stellar jury panel for its Competition Segment, poised to evaluate the finest films of 2024. Adding to its allure, the festival ventures beyond Mumbai this year, introducing Red Lorry Film Festival: Parallel Verse in the vibrant city of Hyderabad, weaving together a dual-city saga of cinematic brilliance.

    This year’s festival promises an immersive celebration of global cinema, featuring over 120 films spanning diverse languages, genres, and cultures. The newly introduced Competition Segment highlights exceptional talent across two categories:

    1    The Front Runners (Best Film): Recognising outstanding storytelling and technical excellence.

    2    Fresh Frames (Best Debut Film): Celebrating bold narratives from first-time filmmakers.

    Submissions for both categories remain open until 14 January 2025, offering filmmakers a chance to showcase their creativity on a global stage.

    The 2025 jury panel brings together an eclectic mix of luminaries celebrated for their contributions to storytelling and artistic innovation:

    1    Acclaimed filmmaker behind Udaan and Lootera, Vikramaditya Motwane expressed his excitement: “Cinema is a universal language and I am truly excited to celebrate its transformative power at Red Lorry Film Festival 2025. Festivals like these provide a platform for innovative voices and stories that push the limits of creativity and it’s an honour to be part of a space that celebrates and nurtures such bold, transformative storytelling.”

    2    Writer-director of Berlin and Jubilee, Atul Sabharwal highlighted, “Cinema is a mirror to society, capturing its complexities, dreams and unspoken truths. Red Lorry Film Festival stands as a beacon of innovation in cinema, celebrating bold storytelling and emerging talent that challenges perspectives and sparks meaningful conversations. I look forward to celebrating and amplifying voices that are redefining storytelling on the global stage and to witnessing the impact of stories that resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.”

    3    Journalist and author, Kaveree Bamzai added, “This festival is a celebration of stories that connect us all, transcending boundaries and bringing us closer through shared experiences and emotions. In a world that is increasingly complex, I am thrilled to explore narratives that not only reflect its multifaceted beauty but also challenge us to think deeper, empathise more and celebrate the richness of human expression. Festivals like these remind us of the power of storytelling – to inform, inspire and transform – and I am honoured to be a part of this vibrant exchange of ideas and perspectives.”

    4    PVR-Inox Cinemas executive director, Sanjeev Kumar Bijli shared, “At PVR Inox, we have always strived to push the boundaries of storytelling and offer audiences an unparalleled cinematic experience. Red Lorry Film Festival perfectly aligns with our vision by celebrating creativity, diverse narratives and the transformative power of films. I am delighted to be part of a platform that not only showcases exceptional talent but also nurtures innovation and inclusivity in cinema.”

    5    Kathak dancer and actor, Prachee Shah Paandya said, “Cinema, much like dance, is a powerful expression of life – both are art forms that transcend words, evoke deep emotions and bring stories to life in a way that resonates universally. I am truly honoured to be part of a festival that fosters and celebrates emerging voices in filmmaking, providing a platform for fresh talent to shine and contribute to the ever-evolving narrative of cinema. As someone who has had the privilege of representing India’s cultural heritage globally through dance and storytelling, I deeply value initiatives like this that champion creativity, diversity and the limitless possibilities of artistic expression.”

    6    Award-winning filmmaker of Bareilly Ki Barfi and Panga, Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari remarked, “Storytelling is the soul of human connection and cinema is one of its most powerful medium. I am honoured to be part of the Red Lorry Film Festival that celebrates the art of movie making and provides a platform for new and emerging voices to share their unique narratives. As a filmmaker, I believe in the power of stories to inspire, evoke change and bring us closer to our roots. Film Festivals like these not only encourage unique voices but also nurture and give an equal platform to the next generation of storytellers, ensuring that the magic of cinema continues to thrive and evolve from India to the world.”

    7    BookMyShow founder & CEO, Ashish Hemrajani joined as an honorary juror, stating, “At BookMyShow, we love storytellers, recognising the ability to inspire, connect and question the status quo. Red Lorry Film Festival perfectly embodies this ethos – serving as a platform that celebrates cinematic excellence and also lends a voice to what’s pushing the boundaries of creativity. As an Honorary Juror, I am humbled and excited to witness first-hand the exceptional talent that emerges via this discovery. This festival is a testament to the potential of cinema to ignite imagination and hopefully leave a lasting impact on the world.”

    Led by BookMyShow COO – cinemas, Ashish Saksena, the festival is more than a cinematic showcase; it is a platform for fostering creative talent and celebrating storytelling’s transformative impact. Saksena shared, “We are thrilled to have such an exceptional panel of jurors, each bringing a unique perspective and deep understanding of storytelling. Their expertise and passion for cinema will undoubtedly enrich the festival and set the stage for discovering groundbreaking talent. The Red Lorry Film Festival is not just a celebration of films; it’s a platform that champions diverse voices, nurtures creativity and showcases the transformative power of storytelling. Audiences can look forward to an extraordinary experience that pushes the boundaries of cinematic innovation and inspires meaningful conversations.”

    Cinephiles can secure their festival passes exclusively on BookMyShow, starting at Rs 750. With a lineup that includes cultural performances, food zones, and tech showcases, the event promises an unforgettable cinematic journey.

    Key highlights of Red Lorry Film Festival 2025

    1    Competition Segment: Celebrating exceptional films in two categories.
    2    Music Concert: Featuring a top artist on Valentine’s Day.
    3    Global Cinema: Over 120 titles across languages and genres.
    4    Immersive Experiences: Cultural performances, travel competitions, and more

    For filmmakers and cinema lovers, true triumph lies not just in box-office millions but in the art of storytelling being seen, celebrated, and revered. This festival is your stage to shine, your story’s moment to connect with a global audience, and your chance to be part of a legacy of cinematic brilliance.

    Don’t let this opportunity pass – submit your films, secure your tickets, and step into the spotlight of recognition.

    The world is ready to applaud your story; all it takes is your first act.

    https://in.bookmyshow.com/events/red-lorry-film-festival/ET00418784

  • PVR INOX unveils Bengaluru’s largest cinema

    PVR INOX unveils Bengaluru’s largest cinema

    Mumbai: PVR INOX, the largest and the most premium cinema exhibitor in India, has announced the launch of Bengaluru’s largest cinema at Phoenix Mall of Asia and its largest cinema in the South. The 14-screen Megaplex located in the largest and one of the most premium malls in Bengaluru features three premium formats – MX4D, ScreenX, and Insignia.  PVR INOX also introduces the first MX4D, the immersive 4D movie experience and ScreenX, 270-degree cinema viewing in South India.

    The new cinema will augment PVR INOX foothold in Bengaluru with 172 screens in 26 cinemas and in the state of Karnataka with 219 screens in 37 cinemas.  The company consolidate its presence in South India to a total of 572 screens in 100 properties.

    Located in the suburbs of Bangalore, the 14-screen Megaplex is the city’s most advanced cinema that includes the multi-sensory MX4D format, premium large screen format ScreenX, three auditoriums of PVR INOX’s luxury format, Insignia along with 9 premiere auditoriums with last row celebrity plush recliners. With a seating capacity of 1997 audiences, the new cinema is equipped with the best-in-class theatrical technology to offer an immersive and enhanced cinematic experience. This includes the 4K laser projection, advanced Dolby Atmos surround sound and Volfoni 3D screen.

    Commenting on the announcement, PVR INOX Ltd MD Ajay Bijli said, “The Southern region is a critical market for us with a steady supply of regional content and passionate consumer demand. We have received an overwhelming response for all our premium screen formats nationwide, prompting us to unveil our largest cinema in South with 14 screens including 3 superlative cinema formats – MX4D, Screen X and Insignia. It has been PVR INOX’s strategy to make cinemas more experiential and this Megaplex at Phoenix Mall of Asia perfectly aligns with our vision.’’

    The design harmoniously blends various shades of white, accented by a regal touch of Royal blue, imparting a luxurious ambiance. Strategic areas such as entrances and F&B spaces are elegantly emphasized using black accents amidst the whites, ensuring a delicate balance. Impressive video walls, signage, and ceiling features reflect the grandeur reminiscent of a Megaplex. By transitioning from whites to greys, the Insignia achieves a refined and opulent atmosphere. This timeless design promises a perpetually fresh appeal, welcoming customers to a comfortable and inviting environment.

    Commenting on the announcement, PVR INOX Ltd executive director Sanjeev Kumar Bijli said, “We are delighted to launch our biggest property in South India, introducing the MX4D and Screen X formats to the region. Bengaluru is a fast-changing and dynamic city in Southern region and one of India’s fast-growing economies. Leveraging on the immense potential of the city aided by proactive governance, it offers one of the most promising destinations for expansion of multiplexes. We are excited to expand our presence in Karnataka with a world-class cinema.”

  • BookMyShow announces A24’s ‘Civil War’ as the opening film for Red Lorry Film Festival

    BookMyShow announces A24’s ‘Civil War’ as the opening film for Red Lorry Film Festival

    Mumbai: BookMyShow, India’s leading entertainment destination today announced Alex Garland directed ‘Civil War’ from A24 as the opening film of the entertainment platform’s Red Lorry Film Festival. Official ambassador of the Film Festival, Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, executive director of PVR INOX Ltd recommends the film amidst his top three from Red Lorry Film Festival’s exciting slew of titles and is a part of the films that he has personally curated for the Festival.

    Bringing a dystopian future America, in the guise of the exhilarating, heart-pounding and much-awaited political thriller to Indian shores, BookMyShow’s Red Lorry Film Festival offers attendees a chance to be a part of the exclusive premiere of ‘Civil War’, before its global release. The film sees a small team of military-embedded journalists traveling the United States as the country is embroiled in its first Civil War since the 1800s, where the states of California and Texas have seceded from the nation to form the Western Forces.

    The film, released by PVR INOX Pictures in India, boasts of a star-studded cast including the Cannes Award-winning actress, Kirsten Dunst, Wagner Moura who grew to fame after his lead role as Pablo Escobar in ‘Narcos’, celebrated actor and comedian Nick Offerman and the ‘Dune’ starrer Stephen McKinley Henderson.

    Critics commend lead actress Dunst, in one of the most-anticipated adrenaline-filled films this year, for her terrific depiction of a photojournalist documenting the end of democracy. Quoting Deadline, “Civil War presents itself as a road movie with a dark twist, focusing on the lengths to which journalists will go to uncover and document the horrors of war. This premise is an exploration of journalistic integrity, the cost of truth and the human spirit’s resilience.”

    Upon announcing Civil War as the opening film for Red Lorry Film Festival, BookMyShow COO – cinemas Ashish Saksena said, “We are thrilled to present ‘Civil War’ as the opening film of Red Lorry Film Festival. From its visually stunning poster to its high production value, this film is a testament to the excellence of cinema. With impeccable sound design, cinematography of A+ quality and critics debating if it’s Alex Garland’s finest work, ‘Civil War’ promises an unforgettable cinematic experience. Its gripping narrative and sheer brilliance across every cinematic sphere ensure that watching this film on the big screen will be an experience you won’t want to miss!”

    BookMyShow introduced Red Lorry Film Festival, a curated cinematic universe featuring over 100 titles  from across the globe, all under one roof from 5 to 7 April 2024 at state-of-the-art cinemas Maison INOX at Jio World Plaza and Maison PVR at Jio World Drive, Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Mumbai.

    Red Lorry Film Festival ambassador, Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, executive director, PVR INOX Ltd has carefully curated a select few titles for this International Film Festival, harbouring a soft touch for emotional dramas that one can relate to. Sanjeev Kumar Bijli said, “We’re excited to join forces with BookMyShow as they celebrate their 25th anniversary with the Red Lorry Film Festival, featuring an eclectic selection of  titles from around the globe that are sure to strike a chord with audiences. Drama has always been a popular genre among film enthusiasts, evolving over time to reflect shifts in society and culture. Finding the right balance of drama and emotion is crucial for a film’s success, captivating audiences and keeping them engaged with the storyline. We are confident that three emotional dramas showcased will captivate viewers with their compelling narratives and characters. This collaboration between PVR INOX and BookMyShow brings together the finest in entertainment, promising an unforgettable cinematic experience for cinephiles.”

    Misfortune and tragedies are no stranger to history and movies about victory, loyalty, friendship and redemption speak of that hard-hitting truth bringing poignant moments of moral learning, strong principles and ethical values to light.

    In addition to the highly-anticipated exclusive premiere of ‘Civil War’ as the opening film with its dark twists and turns, here are two other impactful and poignant movies to watch at Red Lorry Film Festival which are personally handpicked by Sanjeev Kumar Bijli:

    •    One Life: It is based on the true story of British humanitarian Sir Nicholas Winton as he looks back on his past efforts to help groups of Jewish children in German-occupied Czechoslovakia to hide and flee in 1938–39, just before the beginning of World War II. The film stars one of Britain’s most recognisable and prolific actors Anthony Hopkins in the lead role as Sir Nicholas, with the award-winning Jonathan Pryce and Helena Bonham Carter in supporting roles.
    •    Cottontail: A widower from Japan travels with his estranged son to England in order to fulfil his late wife’s dying wish. Fulfilling a last wish is the start of the road of reconciliation for a father and son in Patrick Dickinson’s sensitive family drama, which is delicately composed and elevated by a touching performance from Lily Franky.

    As the curtains rise on Red Lorry Film Festival, movie lovers are in for a treat with hand-picked titles from across the world, promising to deliver thrills, chills, dark, teary and dreary delights. So, book your tickets here, mark your calendars and watch out for more. Starting at just Rs 1499/-, Red Lorry Film Festival is going to be the best indoor experience this summer!

    As BigTree Entertainment Pvt Ltd, the parent company of BookMyShow, commemorates a significant milestone of 25 years in reshaping India’s entertainment landscape, its profound expertise, nuanced comprehension of audience preferences and spotlighting of the enduring and evolving tastes of Indian cinephiles have converged in a momentous celebration which was marked by the launch of the new intellectual property, Red Lorry Film Festival.

  • PVR gets shareholders approval for Inox merger

    PVR gets shareholders approval for Inox merger

    Mumbai: Multiplex operator PVR has received shareholders’ approval for its proposed merger with Inox Leisure. 99.9986 per cent voted in favour of the merger. It was defeated by a margin of 0.0014 per cent.

    Inox, in a filing, said that a meeting with equity shareholders took place. The company sought approval for the proposed merger. The results of the vote are expected to be announced in the coming days.

    The Inox said, “A meeting of the equity shareholders of the company was held on 12 October 2022 at 12 p.m. through video conferencing (VC)/other audio visual means (OA VM) as per the directions issued by the National Company Law Tribunal, Mumbai Bench, vide its order dated 22 August, 2022 and in compliance with the applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 read with rules made thereunder, circular(s) issued by the ministry of corporate affairs and the Securities and Exchange Board of India, for transacting the business mentioned in the notice dated 10 September 2022 convening the said meeting (NCLT Convened Meeting). “

    In March, the two companies announced plans for a merger. Inox had said the merger would bring together two of India’s best cinema brands to deliver an unparalleled consumer experience with a network of more than 1,500 screens.

    Following the merger, Inox promoters will join the existing PVR promoters as co-promoters of the merged entity. According to the regulatory filing on 27, once the scheme is implemented, the board of directors of the merged company will be reconstituted with a total board strength of 10 members and equal representation on the board for both promoter families with two board seats each.

    The company will be called PVR Inox, with the branding of existing screens to continue as PVR and Inox, respectively. Ajay Bijli will be the managing director and Sanjeev Kumar Bijli will be the executive director. Pavan Kumar Jain will be the non-executive chairman of the board.

    Shareholders of Inox will get PVR shares in a pre-approved “swap” ratio of 3:10. Three equity shares of PVR can be swapped for 10 of Inox. Inox will have a 16.66 per cent stake and PVR will have a 10.62 per cent stake in PVR Inox.

  • PVR Cinemas revamps its Ghatkopar property

    PVR Cinemas revamps its Ghatkopar property

    MUMBAI: PVR cinemas has remodeled its four-screen multiplex at PVR R Odeon Mall in Ghatkopar East, Mumbai. Strategically located, the renovated PVR property, the company said it has the latest technology and features and can accommodate 976 guests.

    With this launch, PVR Cinemas consolidated its foothold in Maharashtra with 137 screens in 29 properties and 233 screens across 51 properties in the West.
    The four-screen property is equipped with cinematic technologies including 2K projectors, Next Gen 3D and advanced Dolby 7.1 sound. There are recliner seats in the last row of all the audis for the discerning audience who prefer an extra comfort and a lavish experience while watching movies.

    PVR joint managing director Sanjeev Kumar Bijli said, “We are happy to welcome movie buffs back in Ghatkopar with an experience they have never seen before. With audiences getting back to theatres in full swing, we feel extremely privileged to launch our twelfth property in the city of entertainment. We have carefully curated all the experiences and are confident that PVR Ghatkopar will be a delight for one and all in the region.’’

    Adding to the overall ambience, PVR has launched the property featuring an all-vegetarian menu with an extensive range of gourmet delicacies served in the luxury of comfortable recliners which further adds to the property’s unique offerings and provides a warm and welcoming ambience.
    PVR CEO Gautam Dutta said, ‘’The new Ghatkopar property has been designed to offer an exemplary and engaging and movie-viewing experience. PVR Cinemas has always been focused on providing a holistic experience and the new revamped property is a testimony for that as it is backed by best-in-class hospitality and cutting-edge in-theatrical technology. In addition, we have a long, delectable food slate with scrumptious flavors that will leave our vegetarian patrons wanting more.’’

    With this opening, PVR strengthens its growth momentum in FY 2022-23 with 854 screens at 173 properties in 75 cities (India and Sri Lanka).

  • PVR to launch first 12-screen property in Delhi

    PVR to launch first 12-screen property in Delhi

    MUMBAI: Banking on rising theatrical revenues, PVR, one of India’s biggest multiplex chain, will launch its first 12 – Screen Superplex at Vegas Mall, Dwarka, New Delhi, on Monday.

    The flagship property, biggest by PVR in India so far, will be launched in the presence of the starcast of the upcoming romantic action- Marjaavaan and Ajay Bijli, CMD, PVR Ltd, Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, JMD, PVR Ltd and Gautam Dutta, CEO, PVR Ltd. The multiplex will support all movie formats including IMAX and 4DX.

    The launch of 12 – Screen Superplex at Dwarka will also take PVR a tad closer to its aim of achieving the target of 1000 movie screens in India under its chain. Earlier in August, PVR has reached the milestone of 800 screens after it launched a new three-screen property in Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan. Currently, PVR is present in 69 Indian cities.

    Multiplex business in India is booming despite the disruption caused by OTT in the M&E Industry. As per a recent report in ET, domestic theatrical revenues in India crossed the Rs 100 billion mark in 2018 and will continue to rise in the coming years.

  • PVR Cinemas launches first property in Sri Lanka

    PVR Cinemas launches first property in Sri Lanka

    MUMBAI: PVR Cinemas, the largest and most premium film exhibition company in India announced its entry into the Sri Lankan market with the opening of PVR Lanka at One Galle Face Mall, Colombo today. PVR in collaboration with the Shangri La Group introduces Colombo’s biggest entertainment destination with the launch of the new 9- screen property. Redefining movie viewing experience,

    PVR Lanka hosts premium formats like PVR LUXE, a luxury cinema format and PVR PlayHouse, a dedicated auditorium for the young ones and their family. Designed with contemporary flair blended with local influences and enabled with technological excellence, PVR aims to introduce the epitome of modern cinema in Sri Lanka.

    PVR Ltd. Chairman and Managing Director Ajay Bijli said “Entering Sri Lanka was part of our business strategy for FY 19-20 and I am happy we have been able to make it happen. The socio-cultural similarity between the two nations makes the scope for business growth opulently clear. The vision has been to introduce new concepts and make regional content more accessible for the audience in Sri Lanka. The Indian film industry has grown exponentially in last few years and has a global fan base that we aim to cater to through innovation and expansion.”

    The property spreads across two levels with an area of 38,454 sq. ft. and a seating accommodation of 1,139 audiences. It is integrated with modern technological solutions for superior cinematic experience and digital solutions for an enhanced customer experience.

    Speaking on the launch,  PVR Ltd  Joint Managing Director Sanjeev Kumar Bijli said, “We feel very happy to be able to bring PVR’s offerings to Sri Lanka. The market dynamics in Sri Lanka are very similar to that of India which helped us design our product with much more ease. The love for Indian content is huge here and we are aiming to offer a rich and diverse experience to the cine buffs.”

    Accompanied with gastronomic extravaganza and best-in-class hospitality services in plush and luxurious seating arrangements, PVR Lanka presents itself as a one stop entertainment destination to the cinema goers. The integration of modern décor with intricate design adds to the grandeur of the new multiplex.  An exquisitely designed, bespoke lounge is created for our LUXE audience.

    He further added, “Our endeavor was to introduce eagerly awaited, world class cinema formats to offer holistic entertainment to the market. We are very confident that we will be successful in offering unique experiences to the people of Sri Lanka.”

  • PVR hopes for Rs 300 crore ticket sales through PayTM in first year

    PVR hopes for Rs 300 crore ticket sales through PayTM in first year

    NEW DELHI: PVR Theatres, which had entered into a strategic tie-up with PayTM  few days ago, hopes to sell tickets worth Rs 300 crore on PayTM’s e-commerce platforms in the first year, besides selling tickets from ticket counters and other channels.

    PVR Joint Managing Director Sanjeev Kumar Bijli told  indiantelevision.com  in an exclusive chat that this was a strategic business tie–up and therefore refused to comment about the monetary portion of the deal.

    The deal was part of PVR’s nationwide foray in the on-line movie ticket segment. There will be a complete 360 effort to publicize the deal on all PVR’s 501 screens. The tie up would be visible on all PVR screens. PayTM is also launching a 360 degree campaign to publiclise the new deal.

    PayTM founder and CEO Vijay Shekhar Sharma, while declining to give any specific figures for the campaign on his company’s deal with PVR  told indiantelevision.com that PayTM had spent Rs 1,670 crore on marketing in the previous year. He said that PVR would itself handle the marketing on its screens and PayTM would handle it outside.

    Asked how PayTM would be different from the PVR App or bookmyshow.com,Sharma said that there would be less clicks for booking a ticket and there wouldbe cash backs on every booking along with loyalty premiums. At a later stage, snacks during intervial could also come through PayTM, thus reducing huge queues.

    He also said that PayTM had 125 million (12.5 crore) registered users andhandled 90 million  (9 crore) orders per month and it would benefit from this tie-up, with PVR getting a different clientele than that normally queues online or offline for cinema tickets.

    Earlier this week at a press meet during which the tieup was announced,Sharma had described the PVR chain as the most marquee brand to tie-up with PayTM.

    Answering a question, Sharma had said that around 3.5 million (35 lakh) tickets are sold online daily in China, and there should be no reason for Indians not following suit.

    PVR’s Bijli said the new tie-up also included trailers of the films to be released in two or three months on the PayTM app, thus covering films that were running and those still to be released. This would help the viewer to decide on the film that should be seen.

    PVR chief of strategy Kamal Gianchandani said that the aim was to take online bookings up to sixty per cent. At present, around one-third of the buyers take their tickets online. When asked about whether any seats were kept out of the ambit of online bookings, he said these number was less than ten for any last minute bookings and are opened half hour before the show.

    PayTM is the first e-commerce site to add cinema booking as a category,Gianchandani said, adding that this would add to the user experience for the ease in booking tickets.

  • PVR hopes for Rs 300 crore ticket sales through PayTM in first year

    PVR hopes for Rs 300 crore ticket sales through PayTM in first year

    NEW DELHI: PVR Theatres, which had entered into a strategic tie-up with PayTM  few days ago, hopes to sell tickets worth Rs 300 crore on PayTM’s e-commerce platforms in the first year, besides selling tickets from ticket counters and other channels.

    PVR Joint Managing Director Sanjeev Kumar Bijli told  indiantelevision.com  in an exclusive chat that this was a strategic business tie–up and therefore refused to comment about the monetary portion of the deal.

    The deal was part of PVR’s nationwide foray in the on-line movie ticket segment. There will be a complete 360 effort to publicize the deal on all PVR’s 501 screens. The tie up would be visible on all PVR screens. PayTM is also launching a 360 degree campaign to publiclise the new deal.

    PayTM founder and CEO Vijay Shekhar Sharma, while declining to give any specific figures for the campaign on his company’s deal with PVR  told indiantelevision.com that PayTM had spent Rs 1,670 crore on marketing in the previous year. He said that PVR would itself handle the marketing on its screens and PayTM would handle it outside.

    Asked how PayTM would be different from the PVR App or bookmyshow.com,Sharma said that there would be less clicks for booking a ticket and there wouldbe cash backs on every booking along with loyalty premiums. At a later stage, snacks during intervial could also come through PayTM, thus reducing huge queues.

    He also said that PayTM had 125 million (12.5 crore) registered users andhandled 90 million  (9 crore) orders per month and it would benefit from this tie-up, with PVR getting a different clientele than that normally queues online or offline for cinema tickets.

    Earlier this week at a press meet during which the tieup was announced,Sharma had described the PVR chain as the most marquee brand to tie-up with PayTM.

    Answering a question, Sharma had said that around 3.5 million (35 lakh) tickets are sold online daily in China, and there should be no reason for Indians not following suit.

    PVR’s Bijli said the new tie-up also included trailers of the films to be released in two or three months on the PayTM app, thus covering films that were running and those still to be released. This would help the viewer to decide on the film that should be seen.

    PVR chief of strategy Kamal Gianchandani said that the aim was to take online bookings up to sixty per cent. At present, around one-third of the buyers take their tickets online. When asked about whether any seats were kept out of the ambit of online bookings, he said these number was less than ten for any last minute bookings and are opened half hour before the show.

    PayTM is the first e-commerce site to add cinema booking as a category,Gianchandani said, adding that this would add to the user experience for the ease in booking tickets.

  • PVR launches six-screen multiplex in Bangalore

    PVR launches six-screen multiplex in Bangalore

    MUMBAI: PVR Cinema has launched a new six-screen multiplex at Vaishnavi Sapphire Mall, Yashwantpur in Bangalore.

    PVR Cinemas CEO Gautam Dutta said, “We are very excited about this brand new property. The cinema would be a new hub of entertainment for the residents in the nearby vicinity. Also, with the wide range of programming mix provided at the box office and the vast offerings of food and beverages at the property, we ensure to provide a wholesome family entertainment outing to our patrons.” 

    Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the cinema also has Christie digital projection; 3D enabled screens along with Dolby digital 7.1 surround sound system. 

    PVR joint managing director Sanjeev Kumar Bijli said, “Bangalore is a unique market for cinema exhibition as it has a very interesting mix of audience that prefers a varied range of movies. From animated movies to drama, action to regional, the market demands are high on terms of entertainment. People here are very keen to get the best quality in terms of ambience, technology and food and beverages. Hence, we have taken utmost care whilst building this property. I would also like to thank Sugam Vanijay holdings, our mall developers for providing us a strategic location in the city. We look forward to have further associations with them.”