CM opens SIFCC's first phase of cinema centenary complex

Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa on April 25 declared open the South Indian Film Chamber of Commerce (SIFCC)'s first phase of the cinema centenary complex at Nungambakkam in commemoration of hundred years of Indian cinema.

This is the Chief Minister's first film-related engagement after she came back to power last year. Because of her preoccupation with official work, she declared open the complex via video conferencing from the Secretariat. Ms. Jayalalithaa also laid the foundation stone for the second phase of the complex.

Miss. Jayalalithaa speaking on the occasion said Arignar Anna inaugurated the SIFCC's building on 15th June 1968. MGR had watched movies and also participated in functions at the Chamber’s auditorium. She too had attended many functions here.

The Chief Minister wished that SIFCC, which had been working for the development of the film industry and welfare of its employees, should continue its good work for many more centuries. She said she would come in person and declare open the second phase of the centenary complex for which she laid the stone now.

Honorary secretary of SIFCC Ravi Kottarakkara said the second phase would be completed in January next. It would have three theatres, each with a seating capacity of 265, 40 and 12. While the 265-seat theatre would be used for screening films, the two others would be for censoring films. The chamber’s office would function in the first phase of the complex.

Treasurer K.S. Srinivasan, vice-presidents M Balasubramanian, Editor Mohan, Pon, Devarajan and Thomas D'Souza, Producers Council president S.A. Chandrasekhar, Ad hoc committee president Ebrahim Rowther, Theatre Owners Association president Abhirami Ramanathan, Andhra chamber president Suresh Babu, Karnataka chamber president Chandrasekhara Rao, Kerala chamber president Sasi Kumar and FEFSI secretary Siva attended the function held on the SIFCC premises.