The distinctive Eros theatre building forms the visual cornerstone of the Oval precinct, and is part of the area’s bid for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. A single-screen gladiator holding its own in the multiplex age, Eros is certainly an icon. But the heritage tag brings with it some challenges as well.
“Today, a heritage building is equivalent to a dilapidated building. Much needs to be done in order to ensure that Eros stays in good condition, but there are many hitches because it is a heritage structure,” says a source from the building management.
For example, the source says, although some paver blocks in the footpath surrounding the building are broken or have come off, the municipal corporation has not given permission to replace them, citing heritage structure rules. “These are not rules to safeguard, but actually impediments in the way of maintaining the structure,” he said adding, “Since Eros is a commercial building, tenants contribute for regular repair works. It would have been difficult had it been a residential building. So, if we get help in terms of financial resources it will be very beneficial.”