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Over the years, we have carried out curtain system installations at very many cinemas and theatres across the country and abroad. Often the basic safety requirements are not supplied by the exhibitor. In a cut-throat business environment; one often has to make do with what is available on the site. Let me ellaborate on this with an example:
There was a vertical curtain system installation to be executed at a large auditorium working at a height of 40 feet above the ground. There was no catwalk built, a single ladder that was only 2/3rds the height required; and heavy equipment to be installed on a platform of only 1 and a half feet width while maintaining your balance by placing your foot delicately on the false plaster of paris ceiling on the other side. Problems like these are often encountered in India where builders construct theatres and other institutions without consulting established architects and technicians. Costs are cut by ignoring fundamental architectural requirements and jobs are executed by hiring anyone ready to undertake the contract. Luckily work at the above site was carried out successfully without any untoward incidents; but it was a harrowing experience overall. Often maintenance becomes a problem in such instances. Recently I met up with a very understanding director of a reputed institution and convinced him to have his entire system replaced. However, with over 60 years of experience in the industry, Zoher and Companies experienced technicians and engineers are used to using tables and stools in place of ladders and scaffoldings. Thankfully though things seem to be taking a turn for the better. Exposure to western standards and quality maintenance has led to a growth in the demand for experienced and reputed installers. Rigging and Curtain Control Equipment is an emerging sector in construction sector of the economy. The bulk of existing curtain systems in India today though seem to be in my opinion lacking a professional finish. Yet there are rare treasures that are still in operation today where quality or finance has not been compromised on and magnificent equipment is in place. But even the bulk of these are now outdated and unnecessarily bulky and could well do with a makeover.
