Karnataka Caps Cinema Ticket Prices at ₹200;

Bengaluru: Film enthusiasts in Karnataka have reason to celebrate as the state government has officially mandated a maximum ticket price of ₹200 for all cinema halls, including multiplexes and single-screen theatres. The order, which awaits final publication in the official gazette, is set to bring significant relief and affordability to moviegoers across the state

Key Highlights:

• Maximum Ticket Price: ₹200 for all cinema tickets.
• Applicability: All theatres, multiplexes, and single-screen cinemas statewide.
• Effective Date: Upon publication of the official gazette notification.
• Exemption: Multi-screen theatres with 75 seats or fewer are exempt from this price cap.

Background and Implementation:

The government’s decision stems from a budget announcement made by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah earlier this year, promising to cap ticket prices. This initiative aims to curb the practice of exorbitant ticket pricing, which often sees prices skyrocket to ₹500, ₹1000, or even ₹2000 for new releases, particularly in metropolitan areas like Bengaluru.A preliminary notification was issued in July, inviting objections from stakeholders within a 15-day period. After considering the feedback received, the government has now issued the final order to implement the ₹200 price cap

What’s Next?

While the order has been passed, its official enforcement is contingent on the publication of the gazette notification. This is expected within the next few days. Once published, the new pricing structure will be legally binding across Karnataka.This move is anticipated to boost cinema attendance and make movie-watching more accessible to a wider audience, especially during a time when ticket prices have been a point of contention.