Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has initiated extensive renovation and maintenance work at several theatres across the city, including the iconic Bal Gandharva Rangmandir. The upgrades aim to address longstanding issues and enhance audience and artist experiences. A complete transformation of city theatres is expected within the year, with significant funding anticipated in the upcoming municipal budget.
Bal Gandharva Rang Mandir, located in the city’s central area, was at the center of criticism last year. Artists, technicians, and audiences expressed frustration over inadequate facilities. Following this, then-Guardian Minister Chandrakant Patil instructed the PMC to prioritize improvements.
Renovations at Bal Gandharva Rang Mandir
Work at Bal Gandharva Rang Mandir began with upgrades to the electrical and air-conditioning systems. Persistent water leakage issues were identified and resolved. Additionally, the cafeteria, dining areas, and artists’ rooms underwent substantial repairs. However, some concerns, such as parking and regular maintenance, remain unaddressed.
Yashwantrao Chavan Theatre in Kothrud
Renovation work for Yashwantrao Chavan Theatre in Kothrud is expected to start soon. The theatre’s active schedule has caused delays, but the adjoining Balasaheb Thackeray Hall is nearing completion. Once operational, the hall will temporarily host shows, allowing renovation work at the theatre to begin.
Ongoing Maintenance Across the City
Several other theatres and cultural venues in Pune are also undergoing maintenance:
Ganesh Kala Krida Rangmanch: Replaced 500 damaged chairs with new ones.
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Cultural Hall (Maldhakka Chowk): Flooring upgrades and installation of water coolers.
Anna Bhau Sathe Hall (Padmavati): Exterior improvements and VIP room renovations.
Pt. Bhimsen Joshi Art Centre (Aundh) and Savitribai Phule Cultural Hall (Mahatma Phule Peth): Minor repairs and maintenance.
Deputy Commissioner of the Cultural Department, Sunil Ballal, confirmed that essential repairs in several theatres have been completed, while ongoing work will likely conclude this year.
Artists and audiences remain critical of certain lapses. Sunil Mahajan, President of the All India Kothrud Theatre Association, expressed concerns over unresolved parking and cleanliness issues at Bal Gandharva Rang Mandir, urging the PMC to ensure regular upkeep.
Audience member Vijay Renuse commented, “Despite purchasing expensive tickets, basic amenities such as clean drinking water, proper air-conditioning, and adequate parking are still lacking in theatres.”