RCB plans to spruce up historical building of Odeon Cinema

Rawalpindi

A plan is being considered to upgrade old but historical building of Odeon Cinema into state-of-the-art entertainment facility for the residents of the city.

Rawalpindi Cantonment Board (RCB) is reviewing the proposal to renovate the building of Odeon Cinema without damaging its historic character and any private partner may be engaged for this purpose.

According to the official record, Lansdowne Trust that owns Odeon Cinema was founded by two Sikh brothers — Sardar Kirpal Singh Rai Bahadur and Sardar Sujan Singh Rai Bahadur. The cinema was constructed in 1891.

Drama producer Munawar Afridi, who has submitted an application seeking permission from the RCB to launch a theatre at the site of the Odeon Cinema, said there is more need to establish a theatre to ensure this kind of performing art never dies in the coming years.

RCB spokesman Qaiser Mehmood said the roof of the cinema house is in dilapidated condition but the renovation of the building to make it a modern cinema house and would maintain its archaeological significance.

RCB Vice President Malik Munir said Odeon Cinema was given to Lok Virsa in 2002 but no work was done to preserve its historic building and later it was closed down in 2008.

"Now we have decided to turn Odeon Cinema into one of the best entertainment facilities in the area and we are reviewing various proposals in this respect," he said.