A change is always as difficult as it is inevitable. Growing up, we all come to a gradually better understanding that it will be in our best interest to accept the change than to resist it. But it is hard to put the kid at heart to rest over a change that means a lot more than just a name.

A good 44 years ago, the bustling metro was blessed with the Royal Theatre Complex. For a state that worships movies as a religion, a cinema with 1255 seating capacity was the Holy Grail. The day's largest theatre has continued to stand out as an icon through the decades hence. It was in 1999 that the complex was acquired, expanded, and trademarked under how it is known as a chain today - SPI Cinemas.

As on date, the chain has expanded to 68 screens across 10 cities in the country, but it is still fondly remembered and referred by the name of its first screen, Sathyam. It may not particularly have been intentional to place it strategically in the location, widely accessible from any nook of the city yet, Sathyam has always seen an enormous amount of footfall throughout. From hand painted cut-out, through black-and-white posters and coloured ones, to magnificent digital printed flex boards, Sathyam has stood tall through all the phases in the growth of fandom.

Ticket prices are regulated now by the government, but since the days of black tickets and dynamic pricing, Sathyam has offered the best in class cinema experience; it is no wonder why it was the go-to place for everyone from the poshest of the posh, to tightwads. Easily, Sathyam has consistently stood out to be the fastest and the most filled theatre in the country.

The last decade and a half saw massive improvement in every aspect of movie experience. Latest A/V technicalities, plush seats, state of the art restrooms, and food to kill for, all at a comprehensive affordable price, has set Sathyam as the role model for all other theatres. Comfort walked the extra distance with the introduction of Luxe cinemas; while art was subtly introduced in the form of varying interiors in each screen, it went the full mile with Palazzo cinemas. By all means, SPI cinemas have always remained the talk of the town.

From the celebrations at movie release, the grandiose poster on Whites Road, the punctual movies, savvy booking experience, and the trademark food (especially, the popcorn!), Sathyam is a landmark not only in the city, but also in everyone's lives. This magnificent yet humble theatre holds so many fond memories for each visitor to the threatre ever, from all walks of life.

Now that PVR has set to acquires SPI cinemas, there is a lump in the throat of all loyalists of the iconic theatre. This change is going to be difficult to accept, but to make it easier, here is a pointer that PVR must not discount. What they have set out to buy is not just a bunch of screens and a flourishing business, but a legacy, a fan-clan full of memories, trust, and faith. SPI or PVR is just a name, Sathyam cinemas is an emotion!