Shri R. Subbiah was born in a small village, Panagudi, in Thirunelveli District, Tamilnadu. He was the only son of a grain merchant, Shri Ramalinga Moopanar. Having completed his Pre-University course, he moved on to Trivandrum to make his own living. Through sheer hardwork, sincerity and commitment, RS, as he was fondly called, rose to be adored by his subordinates, honoured by his colleagues and admired by veteran politians like Shri E.M.S. Namboodripad, Shri Pattom Thanupillai and Shri Ponnara Sridhar.
He established Central Theatre in Trivandrum in the early 50's. He was also involved in production and distribution of films. His association with the newspaper world also brought him wide acclaim. For years, the dream of building another movie hall grew in his mind; until finally, in 1967 it materialized as Ajanta Theatre.
The seats and seating arrangement, acoustic effects, entrances and exits from the main cinema hall, the cabin and projection room, the screen and lighting and many more intricacies in the art of exhibition of movies, were finalized after discussion with experts. His meticulous planning and organized execution were greatly appreciated by Shri A.V.M.Chettiar, Shri Raja Sir Muthaiyya Chettiar and Shri Kunjacko.
Physical ailments were a hindrance and his demise in 1976 was a huge loss to his family and friends. However, fond memories of RS light up the way for the next generation to follow in his footsteps.
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