Lucknow’s Indira Gandhi Planetarium is back, but does it still spark wonder?

Growing up in Lucknow, some experiences were almost universal for 90s kids. No matter which school you went to, your trips would inevitably include the Science Centre, Kukrail Picnic Spot, the zoo (and its museum), and of course, the Indira Gandhi Planetarium.

By 2023, though still functional, the planetarium’s facilities and screen had grown outdated. In March, it was closed for long-overdue repairs and upgrades. And finally, on August 19, the city’s beloved Nakshatrashala reopened, revived with new projection systems, 3D shows alongside the classic 2D ones, and a fresh lease of life. Naturally, we had to visit and see the changes for ourselves. And yes, the upgrades were there—or were they?

When it first opened, its projection technology was unrivalled, surpassing even the best cinemas in the city. Even today, the 8K Digital Full Dome Projection System is impressive—the 360° visuals almost convince your brain that you’re truly immersed in space.

During the screening we attended, (the 2D Hindi version) there were moments when the dome technology delivered beautifully. Yet, what fell short was the storytelling, the visual finesse, and the overall execution of the show.

The real problem lies with the shows, which have clearly not kept pace with the cutting-edge technology. In the 35-minute screening, the audience is shown three short films on celestial themes, none of which seem to have been produced in recent years. The VFX is dated and often turns grainy, struggling to match the advanced projection system. At times, the visuals feel closer to 1977’s Star Wars than to anything made in this decade — ironic, considering that even basic AI tools today can generate visuals of higher quality.

What further weakens the experience is the voiceover. The Hindi narration, though iconic with its masculine tone, clear diction, and command over language, fails to connect with today’s audience. The style is reminiscent of early DD National news presenters, a format that worked in our childhood but feels outdated now. Together, these factors undercut the potential of the planetarium’s modern technology and leave younger viewers, who are quick to spot flaws, somewhat underwhelmed.

The planetarium has always stood out as one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks. In fact, there was a brief phase in my early childhood when I was just learning about the Solar System and I genuinely believed Saturn itself resided in Lucknow. Back then, with astral shows that felt relevant for their time, it truly was the glory era of the Indira Gandhi Planetarium.

Today, however, if the authorities continue to premiere the same old shows, the current surge in visitors driven by the reopening will soon fade. To sustain interest, the planetarium needs fresh, high-quality productions that match modern VFX standards and fully complement the advanced technology now in place. Alternatively, they could even consider adopting and licensing shows from abroad to keep the experience engaging and up to date.

• The Indira Gandhi Planetarium is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM.

• Each day, five shows are screened — three in 2D and two in 3D.

• Most are in Hindi, but on Saturdays and Sundays, two consecutive shows (one 2D and one 3D) are also available in English.

• Tickets are priced at ₹100 for 2D shows and ₹200 for 3D shows.

• Students and specially abled visitors receive a 50% discount, while entry is free for children under the age of five.