Modernised Kairali-Sree Theatres opened in Thrissur
Speaking at the function, the Minister said that Kerala will continue to resist attacks on creative freedom and will emerge as a progressive model in the cultural domain. Modern theatres are essential to deliver films to audiences in the best possible way, he said. .
He said that a Cinema Conclave will be held in Thiruvananthapuram on August 2 and 3 and a Cultural Congress in Kochi from December 18 to 20, which will promote peace and harmony and provide platforms for dialogue on artistic freedom. 'At a time when even the naming of films is being questioned, the need for cultural unity is more urgent than ever,' he said.
'More modern theatres are under construction in Kayamkulam, Vaikom, Alappuzha (Alagappanagar), and Payyannur. By 2030, the aim is to expand to 50 screens across the State. The State is also investing in inclusion, with annual grants of ₹1.5 crore each for two SC/ST directors and two women directors to produce films. A new award has been instituted for transgender individuals who excel in the field of cinema, and women are being trained for technical roles through the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy,' the Minister said.
Mr. Cherian also announced that a new cinema theatre project will soon begin in Ollur. He also highlighted that ₹150-crore worth of modernisation is under way at the Chithranjali Studio, with the first phase involving ₹70 crore in new infrastructure, positioning it as a premier film production hub in Kerala.
Revenue Minister K. Rajan, who presided over the event, stressed the need to safeguard physical and mental well-being in an increasingly polarised environment. He warned against attempts to politicise even exercise and education, referencing to controversies around including practices like Zumba in school curricula.
The Kairali and Sree theatres, originally opened in 1999 under the Kerala State Film Development Corporation (KSFDC), have undergone a major upgrade at a cost of ₹16 crore. The revamped facilities now feature state-of-the-art technology including RGB 4K laser projection, Hugo silver screens, Dolby Atmos 36-channel audio, pushback and platinum sofa seating, and air-conditioned baby feeding rooms. Kairali now seats 519 (including 33 platinum sofa seats) and Sree accommodates 327 (with 36 sofa seats), allowing more than 800 viewers at once. The complex also includes lifts, cafeteria, waiting area, guest rooms, accessible restrooms, and ample vehicle parking, designed to be disabled-friendly. Minister Cheriyan praised filmmaker Shaji N. Karun for his vision that guided the redesign and reaffirmed the government's commitment to the cinema sector.
The event also paid tribute to the late Shaji N. Karun, former Chalachitra Academy chairman, with a commemorative address by filmmaker and KSFDC Board member M.A. Nishad. Actor T.G. Ravi was honoured for completing 50 years in cinema. Other dignitaries attended the event included KSFDC MD P.S. Priyadarsan, Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Chairperson Mattannur Sankarankutty, Lalithakala Akademi Chairman Murali Cheeroth, and Thrissur Corporation officials.
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