Pandemic curbs prove death knell for auditoriums

Most managements considering conversion, lease or permanent shutdown of halls

For nearly four decades, AJ Hall has remained a landmark for the busy Kaloor Junction in Kochi. A much sought-after facility during normal times for as diverse functions as weddings to conventions, it is now facing an unprecedented crisis since its inception in 1984 thanks to the pandemic-induced restrictions and lockdowns. From clocking an average of 10 functions a month and employing eight staffers, the numbers have now dropped mostly to zero since the pandemic erupted last year to three salaried employees. While the monthly operational expenses might have halved from the previous ₹80,000, even that has to be borne out of pocket leaving the situation untenable.