The Toronto-based company has a deal with Big Cinemas, India's largest movie theater chain, to install the system at an older Imax theater in Mumbai, which has a dome-like screen. Installation should be completed next month.

Tushar Dhingra, chief operating officer of Big Cinemas, said the digital technology will lead to 'much lower' operating costs and a better theater-going experience for consumers. The Imax digital system removes the need for film prints.

Imax said the installation is a strategic step for the company as it seeks to expand its presence in the region. Imax has over 200 contracts worldwide to install its digital projection system, with over 90 being used and at least 115 to be in operation by the end of 2009.

Big Cinemas is a unit of Adlabs Films Limited, which is owned by Reliance ADA Group, an Indian entertainment conglomerate.

Big Cinemas operates around 425 screens in India, Malaysia and the US. -- AP