The building’s wall bears only the faintly painted name “Toki House Cinema,” a reminder of a once-thriving cinema hall that has remained closed for over 12 years. Hotels and businesses have overtaken the building, leaving the paint faded and the letters barely visible. Yet, there was a time when Toki House was the heart of cinematic celebrations.
In 1968, the banks of Lal Dighi in Cox’s Bazar established Toki House Cinema Hall, a major entertainment venue for locals. For decades, it attracted packed audiences and showcased the latest films. But around 12 years ago, the theatre closed its doors, reportedly due to financial losses.
Cinema enthusiast Hridoy recalls, “I joined here 12 years ago and watched a film starring Arifin Shuvo. That was Toki House’s last movie showing. After that, it was over.”
Today, technology has made everything accessible, including watching movies on mobile phones. Yet, for many, Toki House Cinema represented an irreplaceable experience—an irreplaceable touch of old-time magic.
By Rajin Saleh
