Siddaramaiah Government Caps Regional Film Tickets at Rs 200 to Boost Viewership

Entertainment News: A price cap of Rs 200 has been reintroduced by the Karnataka government for tickets to regional language films, including those shown in multiplexes. The Karnataka Cinemas (Regulation) Rules, 2014, were amended to formally reinstate the policy after it faced previous legal challenges. After Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's recent budget statement, which underlined the state's commitment to reviving and sustaining native language cinema, the decision was put into effect. Any language film in the state must have a ticket price of no more than Rs 200, including amusement tax, according to the recently enacted subrule.

Affordable regional cinema tickets

The undersecretary of the Home Department's prisons and cinema division issued the order on July 15. The action is perceived as a direct reaction to the public's increasing complaints regarding multiplex chains' expensive ticket costs. The government intends to increase audiences for Kannada and other regional films by limiting pricing, particularly among middle- and lower-class audiences.

A similar measure was also introduced previously

The introduction of such a measure is not the first time. During Siddaramaiah's last term in 2017, a similar cap was suggested. However, the regulation was challenged in the Karnataka High Court because of opposition from multiplex owners who expressed worries about lower margins and operating expenses. Finally, the cap was taken off. The state's film industry has embraced the updated rule in spite of previous criticism. The Karnataka Film Exhibitors Association and the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce praised the decision and said it may significantly increase Kannada film viewership.

Multiplex owners unhappy

However, operators of multiplexes have remained reluctant. Many believe that a general price cap ignores the fluctuating costs of running a business, particularly for theatres found in shopping malls and other metropolitan areas. Also, they have noted that ticket sales revenue is frequently crucial for funding maintenance and technological advancements. Government representatives are nevertheless optimistic that the cap will promote a stronger environment for regional films in addition to broader accessibility.