As of now, about 2500 cinema theaters are in existence in Andhra Pradesh state. However, more than 500 theaters have been closed for the past ten years. Have you ever thought of what is the first cinema theater of our state? Here is the answer for you. The first cinema theater in our state was built in 1921 in Vijayawada by Mr. Pothina Srinivasa Rao. The name of the theater was "Maruthi Talkies". In fact, it was started in the year 1918, however instead of movies; some dramas were played in that theater. The first talkie movie of Indian Cinema, "Alam Ara" was screened in this theater on 14th March, 1931. Mr Pothina Srinivasa Rao was said to be not only the owner of the first cinema theater but also the first film distributor. Renowned producer "Doondi" is his son.