In the shadow of Bandra station, nestled among the relentless pace of Vasai’s streets, lies a cinematic treasure trove that is the G-7 multiplex, a sanctuary within a cockroach-sighted, blocky edifice. The encounter with this tiny creature, though startling, didn’t detract from the charm of a venue that has, for nearly three decades, served as a haven for movie buffs and romantics alike, making it a unique fixture in Mumbai’s cultural landscape.
The G-7, affectionately known as “Gaiety-Galaxy” by locals, carries the air of an era bygone, yet remains a beloved relic amidst the city’s rapidly evolving cinema scene. Its origins trace back 46 years, with an architectural simplicity that belies the rich cinematic experiences housed within. Initially comprising three theaters—Gaiety, Galaxy, and Gemini—its nomenclature was expanded with the addition of four smaller venues in the late ’90s, embracing the allure of Hollywood alongside its Bollywood staples.
Stepping inside the G-7 is like entering a different realm, where the mood is set by swirling murals, yellow halogen lights, and the kind of gothic atmosphere that makes watching a movie here an immersive experience. The presence of unseen spectators adds to the mystique, enveloping audiences in a world where the lines between past and present blur seamlessly.
Despite its decaying facade, G-7 stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of communal movie-watching, a concept increasingly rare in today’s digital age. Here, the essence of Mumbai’s cinematic heritage is palpable, from the hard coir seats to the blackout darkness that envelops viewers, offering an escape not from life but into the heart of its surrealness.
The history of cinema in Mumbai is reflected in the evolution of venues like G-7, from the grandiose theaters catering to the colonial elite to the modernist spaces of the working class and, finally, to the suburban multiplexes embodying middle-class aspirations. Yet, Gaiety-Galaxy remains distinct, a symbol of authenticity in a city characterized by rapid change and a craving for constants.
Manoj Desai, the eccentric guardian of G-7, epitomizes the spirit of this cinematic bastion, maintaining low ticket prices and fostering an atmosphere of unbridled enthusiasm, where film stars and commoners alike can revel in the magic of the movies. This commitment to accessibility and authenticity has cemented G-7’s status as a cultural landmark, a place where diverse strands of Mumbai’s society converge in shared anticipation and delight.
Beyond its cinematic offerings, G-7 is a repository of personal memories and collective experiences, embodying the transformative power of film. It is a space where the past is honored, the present embraced, and the future awaited with bated breath. In a city that never sleeps, G-7 Multiplex stands as a beacon of resilience, a reminder of the joys, sorrows, and boundless possibilities that cinema can evoke.