REVEALED: How ‘Dhurandhar money’ helped cinemas across India get a MAJOR makeover; theatres upgrade to laser projection, 3D technology and premium screens
When the lockdown was imposed, many predicted the death of cinema halls, with some even going to the extent of writing obituaries for the theatrical exhibition business. However, cinemas bounced back with a bang, thanks to a steady stream of exciting films across languages that brought audiences back to the big screen. The year 2026 has been particularly remarkable, with several films recording impressive footfalls. One film that stands out is Dhurandhar The Revenge. Its predecessor, Dhurandhar (2025), was an all-time grosser, and hence, expectations from the sequel were sky-high. While the film went on to create history at the box office, its success also had an unexpected and highly positive ripple effect: it provided several cinema halls with the much-needed cash flow to undertake renovations and technological upgrades.
A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “Dhurandhar The Revenge was one of a kind blockbuster. The ticket rates for it were hiked considerably and yet, it didn’t deter the audiences who flocked to the theatres in large numbers. Often, certain films do well only in single-screens or multiplexes. But Dhurandhar The Revenge pulled in crowds in every theatre in every part of the country. No wonder it collected more than Rs. 1000 crores just in India.”
The source continued, “Thanks to Dhurandhar The Revenge, many theatres got enough cash flow that motivated them to renovate and revamp, so that their patrons can get a better experience. Many such theatres went for renovation around July-August. Some of them opened with Ramayana during Diwali while a few of them are expected to resume operations in a few weeks from now.”
Mumbai, in particular, has witnessed a significant wave of cinema upgrades this year. Several theatres, including Roxy, SunCity, Jai Hind in Lalbaug and Topiwala, temporarily shut their doors to undergo renovations. Meanwhile, the popular MovieTime Hub in Goregaon and MovieTime in Malad upgraded all their screens to laser projection, promising audiences a sharper and brighter viewing experience. As per trade circles, South Mumbai’s New Excelsior may also go for an upgrade.
Earlier this week, MovieMax in Andheri East upgraded to 2K projection, enabling the property to screen 3D films as well as Hollywood releases. Interestingly, Ramayana became the first 3D film to be screened at this MovieMax property.
SunCity, meanwhile, has taken things a notch higher by installing a Magnova LED screen, a Premium Large Format (PLF) cinema display system designed to deliver an enhanced visual experience. Introduced by UFO Cinema Solutions, the technology made its Indian debut at Magic Framez in Kochi in August this year. SunCity is believed to be the second cinema hall in the country to adopt this advanced display system.
The upgradation drive is not restricted to independent theatres. On November 6, Mid-Day reported that PVR Inox Cinemas had upgraded as many as 150 screens across the country with 3D technology to accommodate additional 3D shows of Ramayana.
The trade source, however, was quick to put things into perspective. “We are not saying that Dhurandhar The Revenge was the only reason or that every theatre in the country got renovated due to money generated from Dhurandhar. But it definitely played a huge role in many of the theatres. No wonder 2026 saw record cinemas getting revamped. This is a positive step, as giving a premium cinema experience to the viewers is no longer a luxury. It’s a necessity, so that viewers ditch consuming content at home and get motivated to step out and buy a ticket at their nearest theatre.”
The post REVEALED: How ‘Dhurandhar money’ helped cinemas across India get a MAJOR makeover; theatres upgrade to laser projection, 3D technology and premium screens appeared first on Bollywood Hungama.