Sahu Cinemas, where Lucknow first learned to dream on the big
screen, stands as an enduring symbol of entertainment in the City of Nawabs. Nestled
in the heart of Hazratganj—the very soul of Lucknow—it is more than just a landmark;
it is an emotion woven into the lives of generations, echoing laughter, applause,
and unforgettable memories for over nine decades.
At the very heart of Lucknow lies Hazratganj—the city’s soul.
And at the very centre of this soul stands a cinema that has been beating with the
city’s emotions for over nine decades.
More than a cinema, Sahu Cinemas is a timeless storyteller of
Lucknow’s cultural journey. From the echoes of the colonial era to the spirit of
independence, from the golden age of Hindi cinema to today’s world-class digital
experiences, it has gracefully evolved with time—continuing to inspire, entertain,
and bring the magic of the big screen to life.
A Journey That Began in 1934
In 1934, when cinema itself was a novelty across the world, Tehri
Naresh Ji envisioned a grand 650-seater theatre in Hazratganj named Plaza Cinema.
The first film screened here was the English classic The Sign of the Cross—introducing
Lucknow to an entirely new form of storytelling.
Soon after, the cinema changed hands to legendary actor-producer
Sohrab Modi, who renamed it Regal Cinema. At a
time when English films dominated theatres like Mayfair and Minerva, Regal Cinema
made a bold choice—it embraced Hindi cinema, becoming a launchpad for films from
Filmistan Studios.
In 1950, Filmistan acquired the property and rechristened it
Filmistan Cinema, transforming not just its name but its experience.
Push-back chairs, advanced lighting, improved sound systems, and the iconic slow-opening
curtain were introduced—setting new benchmarks for cinema-going in the city.
Films like Nagin, Darshan,
and the patriotic masterpiece Haqeeqat turned Filmistan into an
emotional landmark for Lucknow’s audiences.
The Sahu Era: A New Chapter in Entertainment
In 1977, visionary businessman Shri Ram Narayan Sahu
Ji acquired Filmistan and renamed it Sahu Cinema—marking
the beginning of a new cinematic era for the city.
The first film released under the Sahu name, Amar Deep,
symbolised renewal, progress, and continuity. Under Sahu Group’s stewardship, the
cinema became more accessible, more innovative, and more deeply embedded in public
life.
- Lucknow’s first cinema with a lift
- Two cinema halls stacked vertically (458 seats)
- A rare structure with another cinema beneath (now Prince Market)
From British Era to Digital Age
For over 92 years, Sahu Cinema has evolved with every generation—adapting
without losing its identity.
From black-and-white reels to colour, from analogue sound to
digital projection, from single-screen charm to modern cinematic precision, Sahu
Cinema has remained a constant companion to Lucknow’s people.
Today, in partnership with PVR Cinemas, Sahu
Cinemas delivers world-class technology, immersive sound, and global viewing standards—ensuring
every film experience matches international benchmarks.
Why Sahu Group Is a Pioneer of Entertainment
- Made cinema accessible when films were rare
- Introduced comfort and innovation early
- Adapted quickly to evolving technology
- Remained relevant across generations
This is what pioneering truly means—not being first for a moment,
but remaining meaningful for decades.
More Than a Building—A Memory
Sahu Cinemas is not just brick and mortar. It is first dates,
family outings, patriotic tears, laughter, applause, and silence before the climax.
It is a place where Lucknow didn’t just watch stories—it lived them.
Sahu Cinemas
- A Screen That Grew with the City.
- A Legacy That Still Shines.