Kochi's Sarita theatre reopens, blending old-world charm with modern tech

Kochi's Sarita theatre, part of the historic Sarita-Savita-Sangeeta complex on Banerji Road, has reopened its doors to the public after an extensive renovation. The theatre, which first opened in December 1981, has been a cultural landmark in the city for over four decades.

Sethunath PM, the theatre's manager who has worked there for 36 years, recalls the golden era of cinema when shows played to packed houses and crowds often required police management. "Those days are gone. Today, almost everyone books tickets online," he says, adding that the reopening with modern facilities feels like a return to the old days.

The complex was the brainchild of Issac Francis's father, a plantation businessman with a passion for cinema. The family purchased over an acre of land from the estate of prominent Jewish businessman S Koder. Architect Govinda Rao of Chennai, known for designing several major theatres in Kerala, created the spacious three-in-one complex.

The renovation has reduced seating from 1,272 to 713 seats but introduced modern amenities including a 4K Barco SP laser projector, a 61-foot tall and 26-foot wide screen, and Dolby Atmos sound. The original teak, mahogany, and white cedar wood panelling has been retained for its acoustic properties.

For many locals, especially students of St. Alberts Higher Secondary School, the theatre holds deep nostalgic value. Arun Kumar, a station engineer, remembers the first-day, first-show of Lagaan when the hall erupted with cheers during cricket scenes.

Issac Francis says the family chose to honour his father's memory by keeping the theatre alive despite industry pressures from multiplexes and OTT platforms. Work is underway to renovate the sister theatres, Savita and Sangeeta, which will reopen soon.