Karnataka Caps Movie Ticket Prices at Rs 200 in All Theatres: New Rule Applies Statewide Including Multiplexes

The Karnataka government has issued an order capping movie ticket prices at Rs 200 across all theatres in the state, including multiplexes and single screens. The price ceiling is inclusive of entertainment tax and applies to films in all languages, regardless of the location or format of the theatre.

The government formalised the decision by amending the Karnataka Cinemas (Regulation) Rules, 2014. A newly added sub-rule (6) under Rule 55 now mandates, "The ticket price for each show shall not exceed Rs 200," making it a binding regulation for all theatres operating within Karnataka.

Prominent Telugu film distributor Varadha Reddy hailed the order as "path-breaking" and urged governments in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to adopt similar measures to bring audiences back to theatres, especially in smaller towns.

"I fully support the Karnataka government's decision to cap ticket prices at Rs 200 in multiplexes and single screens alike," Reddy said. "Ticket prices should ideally be below Rs 100 in single screens, as they once were, to attract the lower and middle-class audience back to theatres."

Reddy also pointed to current trends where some multiplexes are experimenting with ₹99 ticket offers and discount schemes to combat falling footfalls. He blamed high ticket prices and expensive refreshments for discouraging audiences and contributing to the decline of single-screen cinemas.

"Earlier, inflated ticket prices were limited to superstar films. But now, even Tier-2 actors are seeing ticket prices of ₹299 or more, which alienates everyday moviegoers and deepens the crisis for theatre owners," he added.

Call for Rational Pricing in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana

Reddy called for a tiered ticket pricing structure in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, suggesting ticket rates between Rs 75 and Rs 150 across two categories. He highlighted that current prices for big-budget films in these states can reach between Rs 400 and Rs 1,200, particularly when producers get temporary approvals for price hikes.

Citizens Invited to Share Feedback

The government notification also states that citizens have 15 days from the publication date in the Official Gazette to submit their suggestions, objections, or feedback on the new regulation. Public response could influence final adjustments to the policy.

In addition, the government has proposed to remove Rule 146 from the existing cinema rules. However, the notification did not elaborate on what Rule 146 contains or how its removal may impact theatre operations. The official notice simply read, "In the said rules, rule 146 and the entries relating thereto shall be omitted."