Maharashtra’s Largest Cultural Landmark: 2,500-Seater ‘Appasaheb Dharmadhikari Theater’ To Be Built In Thane

Maharashtra’s Largest Cultural Landmark: 2,500-Seater ‘Appasaheb Dharmadhikari Theater’ To Be Built In Thane

Maharashtra Government has sanctioned ₹138 crore for constructing the state’s largest theatre in Thane, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced on Friday. The 2,500-seat facility at Waghbil will include a large stage, plaza, and parking. Sarnaik said the project aims to boost cultural infrastructure and is expected to be completed within three years.

Fariyal SayyedUpdated: Friday, April 03, 2026, 07:07 PM IST
Maharashtra’s Largest Cultural Landmark: 2,500-Seater ‘Appasaheb Dharmadhikari Theater’ To Be Built In Thane
Maharashtra’s Largest Cultural Landmark: 2,500-Seater ‘Appasaheb Dharmadhikari Theater’ To Be Built In Thane |

Thane: In a significant boost to Maharashtra’s cultural infrastructure, Thane is set to house the state’s largest theater. Named the ‘Teertharup Nirupankar Appasaheb Dharmadhikari Natyagruh’, the facility will be constructed at Waghbil, Ghodbunder, to cater to the growing demand for world-class entertainment and arts venues in the city.

​The announcement was made by State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik during a press conference on Friday. Highlighting the scale of the project, Sarnaik revealed that the State Government has officially sanctioned a total of ₹138 crore for the construction. The funds have been released in two phases—₹85 crore and ₹53 crore—following a recent Government Decision (GR).

​Unmatched Capacity and Design

​Spanning across 7,300 square meters, the theater is designed to accommodate 2,500 spectators. The seating distribution includes:

​1,600 seats in the main auditorium.

​900 seats divided across two balconies.

​In a move to support grand theatrical productions, the stage will be 12 meters higher than Thane’s iconic Gadkari Rangayatan, allowing for massive sets and complex lighting arrangements.

​Integrated Public Spaces

​Beyond the auditorium, the project emphasizes open public spaces. A 2,000-square-meter plaza will be developed to host live events and cultural gatherings for up to 2,000 people. To tackle the city's traffic concerns, a three-story parking facility will provide space for 650 cars and 300 two-wheelers.

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​Sustainability and Accessibility

​The theater will feature modern amenities including six elevators, escalators, and dedicated backstage facilities for artists. To ensure inclusivity, 12 seats in the front row have been reserved specifically for differently-abled citizens. Additionally, two banquet halls with a capacity of 1,000 each will be integrated to generate revenue for the theater's long-term maintenance.

​Minister Sarnaik expressed his gratitude to Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde for the timely allocation of funds. "This theater will be a cultural pride for Maharashtra. We will soon consult with veteran directors and artists to ensure the facility meets the highest creative standards," he stated. The project is expected to be commissioned within the next three years.

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