With India’s film industry at a turning point, India TV’s popular entertainment podcast ‘The Filmy Hustle’ has released a thought-provoking new episode that delves into the future of Indian cinema, spotlighting the changing face of theatrical experiences, audience behaviour, and the economics behind the silver screen.

This latest edition of ‘The Filmy Hustle’ brings together some of the most influential voices in the exhibition space: Devang Sampat, Managing Director of Cinepolis India; Amit Sharma, Managing Director of Miraj Cinemas; and Vishek Chauhan, CEO of Roopbani Cinema. Together, they unpack the state of movie-watching in India, and what lies ahead for the industry amid evolving viewer habits and technological disruptions.

With box office numbers fluctuating and streaming platforms offering stiff competition, the episode takes an honest look at what theatres must do to remain relevant. The conversation spans across topics such as the rise of premium cinema formats, the importance of content diversity, the surge of regional films, and the need for a more curated cinematic experience to bring audiences back to the big screen.

Devang Sampat emphasizes the need for storytelling innovation and immersive technologies, pointing out that today’s moviegoers demand more than just content—they crave experiences.

Meanwhile, Amit Sharma offers insights into how tier-2 and tier-3 cities are driving the next wave of theatrical expansion. Vishek Chauhan adds an indie cinema lens to the dialogue, advocating for more inclusive narratives and strategic screen allocations for smaller films.

The episode serves not only as an industry deep dive but also as a pulse-check on Indian cinema’s transformation journey. It’s a must-listen for film buffs, stakeholders, and anyone interested in where the movie business is headed in India’s ever-shifting entertainment landscape.