CinemaNational and Dravidian movements
· Salem
T. R. Sundaram started Modern Theatres in Salem, a studio that went on to make more than 150 films.
T. R. Sundaram Mudaliar had entered Tamil cinema as a partner in the Salem-based Angel Films. In 1935 he founded Modern Theatres Ltd in Salem. The studio produced more than 150 films in Tamil and other languages until 2001. It was one of the major production centres of Tamil cinema outside Madras.
Central Studios founded in Coimbatore
Coimbatore industrialists including B. Rangaswamy Naidu and Swamikannu Vincent set up Central Studios for South Indian film production.
Sathi Leelavathi released, M. G. Ramachandran's debut
Ellis R. Dungan's Sathi Leelavathi was released, marking the film debuts of M. G. Ramachandran and other future stars.
Prohibition introduced in Salem district
The Rajaji ministry introduced prohibition of liquor in Salem district, the first such experiment in the Presidency.
Chintamani runs for a year in a single theatre
Starring M. K. Thyagaraja Bhagavathar, Chintamani was the first Tamil film to stay a full year in one theatre.
S. S. Vasan founds Gemini Studios
S. S. Vasan acquired a studio in Madras and established Gemini Studios, which became one of India's major film studios.
A. V. Meiyappan founded AVM Productions, first working from Karaikudi during the war before moving to Madras.