Mumbai: BMC To Consider Residential Conversion Of Defunct Alexandra Cinema Plot In Byculla-Nagpada

Mumbai, August 10, 2026: The defunct Alexandra Cinema plot in the Byculla-Nagpada area, measuring 1,005 square meters, might soon transform from its longstanding cinema reservation to become a residential property. The proposal, following a recommendation from the state Urban Development Department (UDD), is set to be reviewed by the BMC Improvement Committee on Wednesday.

The cinema, which closed permanently in 2007 and has remained vacant for nearly two decades, was once known for showcasing Hollywood action films and English reruns, a far cry from its current dilapidated state.

The prolonged closure has severely impacted the property, with the cinema building becoming structurally deteriorated, prompting questions about its future use. The BMC administration, in its proposal, suggests deleting the existing cinema reservation and allowing residential use, based on applications from the Maharashtra State Wakf Board and the plot's current occupant, Rafiq Patel.

Samir Gulamnabi Kazi, representing the Wakf Board, had approached then Urban Development Minister Eknath Shinde on February 25, 2026, for the deletion of the cinema reservation. Patel, on the other hand, submitted his application to the BMC Development Planning Department on March 27, 2026.

Upon UDD's directions, the BMC prepared its report and recommendations on April 6, 2026, following approval from the Municipal Commissioner. If approved, this proposal could lead to residential development on the strategically located plot, effectively marking the end of its nearly century-long association with cinema use.