Hyderabad’s IMAX Dream: Can Allu Arjun Make It Happen?

For years, Hyderabad movie lovers have missed one particular experience, IMAX. When the iconic Prasads IMAX screen stopped operating under the official IMAX license, it left a gap no other theatre could fill. For many, that giant format was not just a screen. It was an emotion. Since then, audiences have been hoping the city would get a true IMAX again.

But the reality was disappointing. Industry reports revealed that operating an IMAX screen and renewing the license requires extremely high investment and yearly payment commitments. Because of this, even corporate chains avoided installing one. Hyderabad may have luxury cinemas like AMB and AAA, but neither opted for IMAX. Over time, the hope slowly faded.

Now that conversation has restarted and for a good reason.

The Allu family under Allu Cinemas and Allu Cineplex is reportedly working on a massive technological upgrade. They are set to introduce what is being called India’s largest Dolby Cinema screen, located in Kokapet. Even though this is not IMAX, it is a premium format that rivals IMAX in picture quality and sound precision.

This new screen is expected to measure around 75 feet in width and will feature the following.

Dolby Vision
Dolby 3D
Next generation Dolby Atmos sound
Steep stadium seating for unobstructed viewing

According to a Deccan Chronicle report, the grand opening is being planned for Sankranthi 2026, possibly with James Cameron’s Avatar Fire and Ash, which is a perfect launch title for such a format.

If Allu Cinemas successfully runs this premium format, fans believe they might go one step further and eventually bring IMAX back to Hyderabad. The Allu family has already shown interest in high end cinema technology and has the financial and strategic backing to attempt it.

If everything aligns, Hyderabad could soon become one of the best cities in India to watch large scale cinema again. Films like Rajamouli’s Varanasi, Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana, and even Allu Arjun’s own upcoming futuristic action film with Atlee would look extraordinary on such a massive screen.

For now, nothing is confirmed regarding IMAX, but the hope is alive again.