Moynul Islam, Dhaka: For decades, Modhumita Cinema Hall has been a beloved fixture in the hearts of Dhaka’s moviegoers. Nestled on the decaying business hub Motijheel, it stands as one of the oldest and most cherished cinemas in the city. But now, after nearly 55 years of entertaining audiences, Modhumita is set to close its doors for good after Eid.
Iftekhar Naushad, the owner of Modhumita and former president of the Film Exhibitors Association, announced this bittersweet news on Tuesday. Naushad, who is also a successful producer, shared his profound disappointment over the decision. “I am saying these words with great difficulty,” he admitted. “After investing crores of taka to modernise the hall, there are no films to screen. The market has dwindled, and we cannot sustain such losses year after year.”
Naushad plans to replace Modhumita with a multiplex cinema, currently under discussion with a developer company. “It’s an emotional decision,” he reflected. “Modhumita is more than just a business establishment; it’s a nostalgia-laden symbol for many movie lovers in this city. Yet, family pressure and financial realities have forced me to make this tough choice.”
A dream born out of frustration
The story of Modhumita began in the early 1960s when Md Siraj Uddin, Naushad’s father and a passionate film enthusiast, encountered a frustrating situation at crowded Balaka cinema hall to watch Satyajit Ray’s Mahanagar. Only two out of his group could secure tickets due to overcrowding. This experience sparked a resolve within him: to build a cinema hall where movie lovers wouldn’t face such difficulties.
In 1967, Siraj Uddin realised his dream by inaugurating Modhumita Cinema Hall. The inaugural film was the Bangla feature “Dak Babu,” complemented by the trailer of the Hollywood epic “Cleopatra.” From that moment, Modhumita became a cornerstone of Dhaka’s cinematic landscape, creating countless cherished memories for generations of viewers.
Overcoming challenges
Building Modhumita wasn’t without challenges. In 1967, transportation to Motijheel was poor, making it difficult for people to reach the cinema despite advertisements in newspapers and radio. To address this, Siraj struck a deal with a film distributor to bring exclusive movies to Modhumita and another cinema hall, ensuring a steady audience flow. This strategic move helped the theatre thrive even during tough times.
Post-independence in 1971, Siraj ventured into film production, releasing notable films like “Utsarga” and “Jalkeli.” His final production, “Ek Mutho Bhat,” came before his passing in 1976. Afterward, Naushad’s elder brother Salahuddin Farooq took the reins until his death in 1992, when Naushad and his younger brother Zia Uddin Aslam assumed responsibility.
Innovation and adaptation
Innovation has always been part of Modhumita’s legacy. In 1990, Naushad introduced Bangladesh’s first Dolby surround sound system, revolutionising the viewing experience. This technological leap forward further cemented Modhumita’s reputation as a premier cinema destination.
With seating capacity for around 1,200 patrons across dress circle, rear stall, and middle stall sections, Modhumita offered affordable ticket prices, making it accessible to middle-income and even low-income families. “We never promoted or screened films unsuitable for family viewing,” Naushad emphasised. “Our goal was to provide wholesome entertainment.”
The global pandemic dealt a severe blow to Modhumita, forcing a 15-month closure. Many employees were laid off, and the financial strain pushed the cinema to the brink of shutdown. Even post-pandemic, revenue hasn’t rebounded to pre-Covid levels. High electricity bills and diesel costs for generators add to the ongoing struggle.
“We use rent from tenants to cover expenses, but profits remain elusive,” Naushad lamented. “Yet, my father’s memory and the deep emotional ties to this place compel us to persevere.”
A lasting legacy
Shakib Khan’s upcoming Eid release, “Barbad,” may very well be the last film shown at Modhumita. For many Dhakaites, the thought of bidding farewell to this iconic cinema hall evokes a mix of sadness and nostalgia. Modhumita has witnessed both triumphs and tribulations, serving as a beacon of joy and community bonding.
As Modhumita prepares for its final curtain call, its legacy endures—a testament to the enduring love for cinema and the indelible mark it leaves on our lives. Though it may close its doors, the memories it has created will linger, cherished by those who found solace, excitement, and connection within its walls.
