The famous Laxmi Talkies, which was once known as the face of Sambalpur in Odisha is now a grim portrait of an era gone by. The envelope of green moss and trees has erased all traces of its original colour. Audience, who once used to flock to this movie theatre, now have plethora of options to choose from.
Thus, the name Laxmi Talkies is only heard when one passes through the main Chhak which was named after the theatre. However, the older generation residing in the town still reminisces about the resplendent theatre, which currently lies in shambles.
The once shiny and polished floors of 'Laxmi Talkies', now is cracked and difficult to walk on. The chipped walls and musty aroma within the enclosed rooms have rendered it difficult for any repair work.
While remembering its legacy, people talk about the reasons why the talkies went out of fashion. 'Laxmi Talkies' was set up in 1950 and named after the Redhakhol Queen Shada Lakshmi. Earlier many used to visit this theatre during special occasions.
Unfortunately, the old movie theatre couldn't compete with the changing technology and ended up losing the race for the audience's attention.