Archive · 17 Nov 2025
SS Rajamouli's 'Varanasi' in IMAX: Hyderabad's Hope for Premium Screen
A famous director, SS Rajamouli, made his new movie 'Varanasi' using a special big-screen format called IMAX.
But, his hometown Hyderabad doesn't have a real IMAX theater!
So, people are asking if they will get one soon so they can watch the movie the way the director wanted.
The director himself hopes they will.
Even people from the IMAX company say they are trying to make it happen.
A previous IMAX theater in Hyderabad closed down because it was too expensive to keep it updated.
Building a true IMAX screen needs a lot of money and special equipment, which is tricky.
Hopefully, Rajamouli's new movie will encourage someone to build one!
SS Rajamouli's upcoming film 'Varanasi' was shot entirely in the 1.43:1 IMAX aspect ratio.
Hyderabad currently lacks an operational IMAX screen, sparking demands for one.
Rajamouli expressed hope for an IMAX screen in Hyderabad before the film's release.
IMAX Corporation stated they are actively working on establishing a presence in Hyderabad.
Setting up a true 1.43:1 IMAX screen involves significant financial investment and advanced technology.
- Who
- Filmmaker SS Rajamouli, fans, IMAX Corporation
- What
- Discussion about establishing IMAX screens in Hyderabad to experience 'Varanasi' in its intended format
- When
- During the launch event of 'Varanasi' in Hyderabad on Saturday, with ongoing social media discussions
- Where
- Hyderabad, India
- Why
- To determine if the Telugu states, particularly Hyderabad, will get IMAX screens to experience films like 'Varanasi' in their intended format
Hope for IMAX in Hyderabad
Challenges and Past Setbacks
Desire for Premium Viewing Experience
Hope for IMAX in Hyderabad
Filmmaker SS Rajamouli and fans are eager to experience 'Varanasi' in its intended IMAX format, leading to calls for an IMAX screen in Hyderabad.
Challenges and Past Setbacks
India has very few IMAX screens, and Hyderabad currently lacks an operational one, necessitating upgrades for viewers to experience the film as envisioned.
Efforts to Establish IMAX
Hope for IMAX in Hyderabad
IMAX Corporation's Vice President stated they are actively trying to establish a presence, and local producer-distributor Suneil Narang is also working towards bringing IMAX back.
Challenges and Past Setbacks
Past attempts to establish an IMAX at Prasads in Hyderabad failed due to a lack of response, and significant financial investment and advanced technology are required for true IMAX 1.43:1 screens.
- Filmmaker
- SS Rajamouli
- Project Title
- Varanasi
- Filming Format
- 1.43:1 IMAX aspect ratio
- Current IMAX screens in India
- A handful, mostly in metro cities like Mumbai and Delhi
- Hyderabad IMAX Status
- No operational IMAX screen
- Challenges for 1.43:1 IMAX
- Huge financial investments, advanced projection/sound technology, strict international certification