If there is one thing that has not been drastically affected by this economic downturn, it is the Multiplexes.Sure the hunch has troubled every industry even the cinema industry but the fact that the number of movie buffs are not demotivated to watch movies in India, is a very good sign.    When did this Multiplex culture start? well it all began when Ajay Bijli started “PVR Anupam” at Saket, New Delhi, capital city of India in 1997.And today PVR is the India‘s one of the largest chains of  multiplexes with 101 screens in 25 Multiplexes (as of 2007).PVR genesis:

 Priya Village Road show Cinemas, simply known as PVR, started as a joint venture between Priya Exhibitors Private Limited and Village Road show Limited. If you thought you heard the name ‘village road show ltd’ before ,you are right it’s the same Australian media giant that produced THE MATRIX trilogy, Ocean’s Eleven and many Hollywood biggies. Its into Theme parks, multiplexes for many decades.   

        Ajay Bijli was initially into his dad’s transport business and then had a thought about improvising the movie viewing. Purchased an old theatre and upgraded that with good seats and sound systems and that’s how it all began. PVR is the biggest player in DELHI and National capital region. It has the country’s biggest Multiplex with 11 screens in Bangalore.

PVR future:  PVR is now planning to invest about 400 crores, that’s 4 billion INR, to increase the number of screens to 250 by 2010.PVR has also launched other brands like PVR Premiere targetted for the metros, and PVR Talkies for Tier II and Tier III cities. Soon it’s going to launch a big multiplex with bowling alleys, ice skating and gaming zones.    Ajay Bijli is also into movie production and distribution. Films include Taare Zaamen Par,Bheja fry,jaane tu.Being the Chairman and managing director of PVR, Ajay has a long-term vision to make PVR India’s most favorite Retail Entertainment Company.