PVR Plaza-CP,Delhi — Local services in New Delhi

Plaza Cinema: Where Delhi’s History Meets the Silver Screen

Plaza Cinema, located in the iconic Connaught Place of Delhi, is one of the most historic and culturally significant cinema halls in the city. It stands as a testament to the grandeur and charm of Delhi’s colonial-era entertainment venues, having been part of the city’s cinematic journey since its inception in 1932. Situated in Connaught Place's H Block, Plaza Cinema was built around the same time as the other key architectural marvels of the area, including Regal and Rivoli, forming a part of the city's early social and cultural landmarks.

Designed by the British architect Robert Tor Russell, Plaza Cinema's architecture was a brilliant blend of the colonial aesthetic with an Art Deco influence, a style that was highly popular during the 1930s. The building featured an elegant façade, characterized by its clean, symmetrical lines and towering arches, creating a striking visual in Connaught Place’s horseshoe-shaped design. Its interiors were lavishly appointed, with plush seating, intricate light fixtures, and a large screen that could accommodate a sizable audience, making it one of the most luxurious theaters of its time.

Plaza Cinema was much more than just a movie hall; it became a social hub for Delhi’s elite. Over the years, it showcased a wide array of films, from Hollywood blockbusters to the best of Indian cinema. During the British Raj, it often screened English films and was a preferred entertainment venue for the British and Indian aristocracy. After independence, it became one of the city's top theaters for premiering Bollywood films, earning a reputation for hosting glamorous events and movie screenings.

It's worth mentioning that in the early 1950s, Kashmere Gate was a hub for the Parsee community. One of the highlights of the celebration of NavRoz was the free morning movie show at Plaza Cinema, where all the Parsees were invited. After the movie, the community enjoyed free soft drinks and snacks. Plaza was owned by Keki Mody, the brother of the renowned actor Sohrab Mody. The manager of Plaza was Bhumansa Sethna while Minerva Theatre in Old Delhi was managed by Sohrab Maneckshaw.

The Plaza was also known for screening some of the first talkies—films with synchronized sound—which marked the beginning of the sound era in cinema, attracting massive crowds eager to experience this new technology. Its prime location in the heart of Connaught Place made it easily accessible, and it remained a favorite among moviegoers for many decades.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Plaza Cinema witnessed the golden era of Indian cinema, screening timeless classics and premieres of Bollywood films. It also held a special place in the hearts of Delhiites for its association with film festivals, exclusive screenings, and cultural events. Moviegoers from all walks of life flocked to Plaza for its immersive cinematic experience.

The cinema hall was not just a place to watch films; it became a meeting ground for the city’s intellectuals, socialites, and cinema lovers. In the pre-multiplex era, cinema halls like Plaza were a symbol of grandeur and escapism, offering a space where people could come together to enjoy the magic of movies.

Contributed by Manav Kaushik www.foodfunda.net foodfunda_net...

PVR Plaza, Connaught Place – A Mixed Bag of Nostalgia and Challenges

PVR Plaza in Connaught Place, Delhi, carries a distinct vintage charm that makes it stand out from the newer multiplexes in the city. Walking into the theater, you’re immediately greeted by its old-school ambiance, which is reminiscent of a bygone era. However, while the nostalgic vibe is appealing, several aspects of the experience leave much to be desired.

Vintage Vibe – A Step Back in Time

The aesthetics and architecture of PVR Plaza are undoubtedly its strongest points. The vintage interiors and the classic layout give it a unique identity in a market dominated by modern, cookie-cutter multiplexes. For movie enthusiasts who enjoy a touch of nostalgia, the atmosphere here adds to the cinematic experience.

Exorbitant Prices

However, the ticket prices and the cost of refreshments are sky-high, especially considering the overall experience. For the premium rates being charged, one expects better service and facilities, which unfortunately fall short.

Poor Crowd Management

One of the glaring issues is the lack of proper crowd management. From ticket counters to the waiting areas, there’s little to no organization, making the experience chaotic, especially during peak hours. The disorderly handling of queues detracts from what should ideally be a smooth and enjoyable outing.

Underwhelming Exit Section

The exit section is a nightmare. Narrow passageways, lack of proper guidance, and the general congestion make leaving the theater an unnecessarily frustrating experience. It’s a stark contrast to the grandeur you feel when entering the theater.

Mediocre Sound System

The sound system doesn’t live up to expectations, particularly for a cinema with such a rich history. The audio lacks the punch and clarity you’d anticipate in a modern theater, which affects the overall movie-watching experience.

Final Thoughts

PVR Plaza has the potential to be an extraordinary venue that combines its vintage charm with modern amenities. However, exorbitant pricing, poor crowd management, a frustrating exit process, and a subpar sound system diminish its appeal.

If you’re someone who appreciates old-world charm and is willing to overlook the shortcomings, PVR Plaza might still hold some appeal. But for those expecting a seamless, high-end cinematic experience, there are better...

My recent visit to PVR Plaza, CP turned out to be a nightmarish experience that I would rather forget. The incident that unfolded was not only disheartening but also a stark reminder of the lackluster attitude of the staff when it comes to handling conflicts and providing a respectful environment for their patrons.

The trouble began when I found myself seated next to an individual who appeared to be in a confrontational mood. As the movie began, it became clear that this person had no intention of simply enjoying the film. Instead, they engaged in a verbal altercation with me, which quickly escalated into a physical altercation. The situation was distressing and alarming, as one would expect from a place that claims to provide entertainment and relaxation.

What truly shocked me, however, was the staff's complete inability to manage the situation. Instead of promptly intervening and diffusing the tension, they stood by idly as the situation escalated. It was abundantly clear that the staff was not adequately trained to handle such incidents and that their priority was far from ensuring the safety and comfort of the patrons. In addition to their lack of action, the staff's disrespectful demeanor further added to the dismal experience. When I finally managed to seek assistance, I was met with indifference and a dismissive attitude. It was as if my concerns were of no importance to them, and their disregard for my well-being and enjoyment was painfully evident.

It's deeply disappointing to realize that the staff at PVR Plaza, CP are not equipped to manage even the simplest of conflicts, let alone create a safe and enjoyable environment for their customers. The incident not only ruined my evening but also shattered any faith I had in the theater's ability to provide a positive moviegoing experience.

I strongly urge anyone considering a visit to PVR Plaza, CP to reconsider and explore other options. An establishment that fails to prioritize the safety and comfort of its patrons, and that lacks the basic skills to handle conflicts, is simply not worth the time or money. My hope is that this review serves as a wakeup call for the management to reevaluate their staff training and overall approach to customer...