Gen Z Driving India’s Cinema Revival, Says PVR Inox as Young Audiences Return to Theatres
India’s multiplex industry is witnessing a fresh surge in theatre attendance, largely fueled by Gen Z audiences, as younger consumers increasingly return to cinemas despite the dominance of digital entertainment platforms. According to executives at PVR INOX, younger viewers are playing a crucial role in reviving theatrical footfalls and reshaping movie consumption trends. Industry leaders say many young viewers are experiencing digital fatigue, prompting them to seek more immersive, in-person entertainment experiences. Beyond big-budget blockbuster films, audiences are also showing growing interest in regional cinema, Hollywood releases, and sleeper hits, helping theatres maintain occupancy levels throughout the year. As highlighted in Ormax Media’s TOBAR 2026 report, consumers below the age of 30 now account for 57% of Hindi box office revenue and nearly 70% of first-day collections, underlining Gen Z’s growing influence on theatrical performance. Sanjeev Bijli, Executive Director of PVR Inox, said younger audiences are actively returning to theatres as they look to disconnect from the online world. He pointed to films like Obsession and Backrooms as examples of fresh, original storytelling that strongly resonates with younger moviegoers. Unlike franchise-driven superhero films, these projects have gained global popularity due to their unique concepts and young creators. Obsession, made on a modest budget of under $1 million, has reportedly earned over $234 million worldwide, while Backrooms, produced with a $10 million budget, has crossed $221 million globally. The film released in India on June 12, while Obsession hit theatres on May 29. Rohit Dalmia, Director at CineNow, noted that younger audiences increasingly value cinemas as social spaces where they can share experiences with friends and peer groups. Industry experts believe trends such as premium cinema experiences, expansion into smaller cities, and a stronger pipeline of sleeper hits beyond event films will continue to shape the future growth of India’s theatrical business. Source: Economic Times
