Cinema VinesOn November 7, Mumbai’s iconic G7 multiplex, better known as Gaiety‑Galaxy, marked the two‑month anniversary of its abrupt closure. The shutdown began as a minor disagreement but quickly escalated when police were called in. During their investigation, officers examined the theatre’s paperwork and discovered that its operating licence had not been renewed since the 2021‑22 season, prompting authorities to order the complex to shut down for non‑compliance.
Despite the theatre’s absence, executive director Manoj Desai has continued to pay full salaries to the staff, even though the complex has not generated any revenue since September 7. An industry insider explained that Desai and his team are working hard to resolve the licensing issue, but because it involves government procedures, progress is slow and the timeline remains uncertain. Employees, grateful for the wages during festival season, miss the buzz of the auditorium and look forward to reopening.
The closure has left fans and filmmakers disappointed. Two recent releases, “Drishyam The Conclusion” and “Jailer 2,” were unable to screen at the venue, and the new film “Ramayana” also missed its opportunity to premiere there. The theatre had historically been a launchpad for Bollywood stars, who would often visit to gauge audience reactions and promote their work. Yet, since the shutdown, there has been a noticeable radio silence from celebrities, with no social media posts or public statements about the situation.
Industry insiders noted that actors who once celebrated their success at Gaiety‑Galaxy have refrained from commenting, perhaps fearing backlash or ridicule. Some believe a public outcry—such as a simple “Missing Gaiety‑Galaxy” or a plea for quick resolution—might bring attention to the issue and accelerate the licensing process. For now, the complex remains closed, and the city’s film lovers wait for a hopeful reopening date.
