Gurcharan Singh Kaler, who made Shingar Cinema a part of Ludhiana’s history, dies at 89

Gurcharan Singh Kaler, the owner of Shingar Cinema and a prominent businessman in Ludhiana, passed away at the age of 89. Born in Raikot constituency within Ludhiana district, Kaler moved to Ludhiana and grew the family business over the years. Known for his active involvement in his business ventures until the end, Kaler was survived by his two sons and grandchildren. His daughter had passed away a few years ago.

Among his various business associations, Kaler was linked with Shingar Cinema, New Akal Transport, Bharat Transport, and served as the General Secretary for the Radha Soami Sect. Paramjeet Singh Ranu, the National President of the Sehajdhari Sikh Party, expressed sorrow over Kaler’s demise, praising him as a leading industrialist and a person with noble social and spiritual values.

Ranu highlighted that Kaler had a deep connection with Raikot even after settling in Ludhiana, and had opened a charitable hospital there, though it is currently closed due to renovation needs.

Shingar Cinema, an iconic multi-screen theatre in Ludhiana’s old city area, opened its doors in 1975 and provided entertainment to generations of residents for nearly five decades. The cinema, which featured three sections - Shingaar, Mini Shingaar, and Midi Shingaar, attracted audiences with its affordable tickets and was a beloved landmark on Samrala Road. Despite a tragic bomb blast in 2007 that claimed six lives and injured 37 others, Kaler swiftly reopened the cinema.

Gurcharan Kaler was dedicated to providing affordable entertainment options for those who couldn’t afford modern multiplexes. In 2007, he had mentioned that Shingar Cinema played a role in preserving the cultural heritage of Ludhiana by offering an affordable form of entertainment. Kaler had also maintained ties with the history of Raikot and its pre-Partition connection with the Rai family, with whom he met in Pakistan after Partition.

The Ganga Sagar, a sacred copper vessel associated with Guru Gobind Singh, is believed to have been displayed at Raikot’s Gurdwara Tahliana Sahib for devotees even after Partition. Kaler played a significant role in organizing events during Rai’s visits, as per those familiar with the family’s involvement. Ranu described Kaler’s death as an "irreparable loss" to the community and extended condolences to his family and followers, with a planned prayer meeting held at Nirvana Club on August 14 from 1 pm to 2 pm.