INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day Special…
Vaishali of Padaki family continues Mysuru’s cinema exhibition legacy through city’s first multiplex DRC Cinemas, balancing films & expanding multiplex brand.
The Padaki family is among the well-known families of Mysuru. For many Mysureans born in the late 1970s, 1980s, 1990s and even the 2000s, Shanthala Talkies on Narayana Shastri Road was a familiar landmark and a cherished part of their cinema-going memories. The family has been associated with the movie business for several decades. Although Shanthala Talkies was shut down recently, its legacy of entertaining audiences continues through DRC Cinemas, the city’s first multiplex located at B.M. Habitat Mall in Jayalakshmipuram.
Currently managed by Vaishali Hanumanth, a third-generation
entrepreneur from the Padaki family, the multiplex has become something of a second home for many movie buffs in Mysuru since its inception 15 years ago.
On the occasion of International Women’s Day, Star of Mysore caught up with Vaishali Hanumanth, Managing Partner of DRC Cinemas, for a brief conversation about her journey as a successful woman entrepreneur. Excerpts:
By S.N. Venkatnag Sobers
Star of Mysore (SOM): When it comes to movies, your family is among the oldest exhibitors in Mysuru. How does it feel to carry forward the Padaki legacy?
Vaishali Hanumanth: Carrying forward the Padaki legacy is both an amazing experience and a matter of immense gratitude. What was started by my grandfather N.S. Padaki was later carried forward by my father M.N. Padaki and uncles N.P. Padaki and Mohan Padaki, and I eventually joined the family business. Now, with my son Krishna and daughter Manasa also stepping in, the legacy has entered the fourth generation.
Earlier, when Shanthala Talkies was operational, I used to visit regularly to discuss the business with my father and my uncle N.P. Padaki, who continues to be a guiding force even today. If DRC Cinemas has become a successful venture, I must thank my entire family, including my husband Hanumanth, who have been my backbone since day one.
SOM: As a woman entrepreneur, how did you manage to run the show in an industry that is largely dominated by men?
Vaishali: Like anyone else, I have had my share of ups and downs. But I must give full credit to my family. My husband, son, daughter, and of course my late father, have all been extremely supportive. Without their encouragement, I would not have reached where I am today.
In many ways, I am just the face of the venture. Everyone in the family has contributed. Thanks to technology, much of the work today happens through e-mails and phone calls, so there is no constant need to meet people in person. Of course, there are tough days as well as easier ones, but that is part of the journey.
SOM: Being the first multiplex in Mysuru, how do you look at DRC’s journey over the past 15 years?
Vaishali: The journey has been wonderful so far. I must thank the people of Mysuru for accepting us with open arms. Though there is competition in the market, I believe I have a certain advantage because I am a Mysurean.
Many people who visit DRC feel a sense of connection with the place. Whether their feedback is positive or critical, they often call us, sometimes even late at night, to share their thoughts about the food, seating or other aspects. We take every suggestion seriously and constantly work on improving ourselves to give movie buffs in Mysuru a better experience.
SOM: Selecting movies for exhibition is one of the toughest tasks. How do you manage to maintain a balance?
Vaishali: I believe the legacy I carry plays an important role. During discussions with distributors, I try to convince them to release films at different times so that I can maintain a balance between various movies. I also assure them that if a film performs well, we will increase the number of screenings.
We review the performance of films regularly, especially over the weekends. Of course, it can still be challenging when it comes to big films and major production houses. Ultimately, it depends on how well you manage the situation and convince people.
When the content is strong, choosing between films becomes even tougher. But I always try to strike a fair balance. Distributors have appreciated this approach because I make it a point to stand by whatever I promise them.
SOM: There has often been confusion over ticket prices, especially with the Government fixing a price cap. What is your view on this?
Vaishali: Personally, I feel the Government should not interfere in ticket pricing. There are occasions when we sell tickets at much lower prices as well. We have never pressured anyone to come and watch a movie. It is entirely their personal choice.
If someone wants better facilities, they will have to pay a premium. In reality, people come to watch movies irrespective of ticket prices. If the content is good, audiences rarely worry about how much the ticket costs.
At the same time, several factors go into providing a good movie-watching experience. The projectors, sound systems, seating, quality of food and air-conditioning. Everything has to be maintained at a high standard. If we compromise on any of these, we will lose our audience.
At DRC, we use the latest 4K laser projectors and Dolby Atmos audio systems. We also have staff salaries to pay and electricity bills are very high. All of this involves considerable cost.
The Govt. should not interfere in ticket pricing. There are occasions when we sell tickets at much lower prices as well. We have never pressured anyone to come and watch a movie. It is entirely their personal choice. If someone wants better facilities, they will have to pay a premium. In reality, people come to watch movies irrespective of ticket prices.
SOM: What are your plans for DRC? Are you looking at expansion in the near future?
Vaishali: We are starting DRC at Kushalnagar in a couple of months and the work is progressing at a good pace. We are quite bullish about Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, where entertainment options play a big role in people’s lives.
At the same time, we are a little conservative in our approach. Hopefully, we may come up with one more DRC in Mysuru as well.
SOM: What is your message to women on the occasion of International Women’s Day?
Vaishali: My message is very simple. Do what you truly enjoy and make sure you take everyone along with you in the journey. When you grow together with people who support you, the journey becomes far more meaningful.
Most importantly, patience and hard work are essential. Without these two things, achieving success is not possible.
This post was published on March 14, 2026 5:28 pm