The much-awaited sequel to the blockbuster hit Hanuman, titled "Jai Hanuman," was officially announced earlier this year. Recently, a grand celebration marked its 100th day at the AAA Multiplex in Hyderabad with a free show, stirring excitement for potential updates about Part 2. The producers have revealed that "Jai Hanuman" will be shot specifically for IMAX and will be fully enjoyed in 3D—a first of its kind in Tollywood.
Despite the enthusiasm, Telugu cinema fans are facing a bit of disappointment. Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, despite their numerous theaters, lack genuine IMAX screens. While major Indian cities boast these advanced screens established by various corporate entities, even major urban areas like Hyderabad, Vijayawada, and Visakhapatnam haven’t been as fortunate. Even with Asia’s largest screens installed by corporations like Prasad’s and V Celluloid in Sullurpeta, the technology used isn’t equivalent to true IMAX, leaving a gap in the cinematic experience for local moviegoers.
There’s ongoing chatter among distributors that ticket pricing regulations in the Telugu states are hindering the introduction of IMAX. With states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu operating IMAX theaters despite having fewer cinemas, the absence of such facilities in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana is notably disheartening. It’s time to seriously consider how to fully deliver blockbuster cinematic experiences to all Telugu cinema fans.
