Introduction
In early 2025 Peshawar bid farewell to one of its most iconic cultural landmarks Naz Cinema
Established in the 1940s by a Sikh entrepreneur this historic theatre had been a cornerstone of the city’s cinematic heritage .
Its demolition marks not just the end of a building but the erosion of a vibrant cultural era in Peshawar .
Originally named Rose Cinema the theatre was founded in the 1940s by a Sikh businessman who migrated to India during the Partition
In 1947 it was acquired by the grandfather of Jawaid Raza the current owner and renamed Naz Cinema
For decades it stood as a testament to Peshawar’s rich cinematic culture screening films in Urdu Pashto Punjabi and English
Notably the Pashto film Orbal ran for nearly two years at Naz reflecting its popularity among local audiences .
Challenges and Decline
Despite its historical significance Naz Cinema faced numerous challenges in recent years
The rise of militancy in the region led to security concerns with several cinemas targeted in attacks
In 2014 bomb blasts at two Peshawar cinemas resulted in multiple casualties further deterring audiences .
Additionally the proliferation of digital media lack of quality film productions and high operational costs contributed to declining patronage
Efforts to modernize including a 2020 upgrade to a 3D cineplex failed to revive its fortunes .
Demolition and Aftermath
In February 2025 demolition of Naz Cinema commenced making it the tenth cinema in Peshawar to be razed in recent years
Owner Jawaid Raza expressed his dismay citing the lack of quality films and dwindling audiences as primary reasons for the closure
He lamented that the cinema could no longer sustain operations with minimal attendance and rising costs .
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The Broader Picture
Naz Cinema’s demise reflects a broader trend in Peshawar where many historic cinemas have been demolished or repurposed
Cinemas like Shabistan Palwasha Novelty Metro and Falak Sair have been replaced by commercial complexes
Currently only a few cinemas including Picture House Tasveer Mahal Aina and Shama remain operational and they too struggle to attract audiences .
Conclusion
The demolition of Naz Cinema signifies more than the loss of a building it represents the fading of a cultural legacy
As Peshawar continues to modernize preserving its rich cinematic history becomes increasingly vital .
Without concerted efforts to support and revitalize the local film industry the city’s remaining cinemas may soon share the same fate .