Dateline: Mumbai | September 24, 2025
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| India’s First 360-Degree Cinema Launched at Filmcity, Goregaon |
Lead
In a groundbreaking step for Indian cinema, a 360-degree immersive theatre has been launched at Dadasaheb Phalke Filmcity, Goregaon, Mumbai. The state-of-the-art cinema promises to redefine storytelling by surrounding audiences with visuals and sound, offering a multi-sensory cinematic experience unlike traditional theatres.
Background
Filmcity, Mumbai’s iconic hub for movie shoots, has long been a cornerstone of India’s film industry. With the introduction of the 360-degree cinema, it is set to strengthen its reputation as a pioneer in technological innovation.
Globally, immersive cinemas have gained popularity in destinations like Dubai and Singapore. The Goregaon launch marks India’s first permanent 360-degree facility, blending entertainment with education, tourism, and interactive storytelling.
Officials revealed that the project was conceived as part of an initiative to attract tourists, students, and cinema lovers, while showcasing the evolution of Indian filmmaking.
The Launch Event
The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of senior government officials, Bollywood stars, and industry leaders. Minister of Cultural Affairs, Sudhir Mungantiwar, hailed the theatre as a “milestone for Indian entertainment,” saying:
“This 360-degree cinema will not only entertain but also educate and inspire. It shows how technology and storytelling can come together to create magic.”
The first screening at the theatre was a specially curated film that combined elements of Indian history, space exploration, and cultural heritage—designed to demonstrate the power of the immersive format.
What Makes It Unique?
The 360-degree cinema differs from traditional movie halls in several ways:
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Panoramic Screen: Viewers are surrounded by visuals projected across a dome, creating a fully immersive effect.
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Spatial Audio: Sound design is enhanced to move in sync with visuals, giving a 3D auditory experience.
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Interactive Elements: Future plans include AR/VR integration, where audiences can engage with the story.
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Versatile Content: Besides films, the theatre will host documentaries, educational shows, and live events.
Officials said the venue will also support tourism and student visits, offering programs on science, history, and Indian cinema.
Industry and Audience Reactions
Bollywood personalities expressed excitement about the project. Actor Ayushmann Khurrana tweeted:
“Cinema is evolving! A 360-degree theatre at Filmcity is a gift for film lovers and creators. Can’t wait to experience it.”
Audience members who attended the launch described it as “jaw-dropping” and “futuristic.” A student who visited the facility said:
“It felt like being inside the movie. At one moment we were flying through space, and the next, we were walking through Mughal history.”
Future Prospects
Producers and directors see the 360-degree cinema as an opportunity to experiment with new forms of storytelling. Filmmakers are already in discussions to create custom content for the venue, from sci-fi adventures to mythological epics.
Tourism experts believe the attraction will also draw international visitors, putting Mumbai on the map as not just Bollywood’s home, but a hub for cinematic innovation.
Additionally, educational institutions are expected to collaborate with the theatre for field trips and immersive learning experiences.
Broader Impact
The 360-degree cinema represents a fusion of entertainment and technology, showing how India is adapting global innovations while carving its own niche. Analysts suggest that if successful, more such theatres could be launched in other cities, creating a new segment of experiential cinema.
The project is also expected to boost local employment and business opportunities, from technology providers to creative storytellers specializing in immersive content.
Conclusion
The launch of India’s first 360-degree cinema at Filmcity, Goregaon, marks a turning point for the entertainment industry. By combining thrill, knowledge, and cutting-edge technology, the theatre offers a fresh way for audiences to experience stories.
For a country that lives and breathes cinema, this immersive format could be the start of a new era—one where audiences are no longer passive viewers but part of the narrative itself.
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