Karnataka HC stays state government’s order capping movie ticket prices at Rs 200 for all theatres
(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
In a big win for movie theaters and multiplexes in Karnataka, the state’s High Court has halted a government plan to cap cinema ticket prices at just Rs 200. This decision came on Tuesday from a single-judge bench headed by Justice Ravi Hosamani, putting a temporary stop to the uniform pricing rule that would have applied to all films across halls and multiplexes in the state.
The move follows a draft notification released by the Karnataka government back in July. Under the proposed Karnataka Cinemas (Regulation) (Amendment) Rules, 2025, the Home Department aimed to update the 2014 rules by adding a new limit: no ticket could exceed Rs 200 per show, including entertainment tax. This cap would cover every theater, multiplex, and film—no matter the language or type of cinema.
The draft specifically targeted Rule 55 in the existing regulations, inserting a proviso to enforce the Rs 200 ceiling for all shows statewide. It also planned to scrap Rule 146 entirely, which had allowed more flexible pricing before.
The controversy highlights ongoing debates over Karnataka movie ticket prices and how they affect theater owners and audiences in cities like Bengaluru. Supporters of the cap argue it makes entertainment more affordable, while critics say it could hurt the film industry’s revenue, especially for big releases in multiplexes.
Separately, on Monday, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah kicked off the Mysuru Dasara 2025 celebrations with a traditional floral offering to Goddess Chamundeshwari on her silver chariot. Joining him were dignitaries, including Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq, despite earlier backlash over her invitation. Both the Karnataka High Court and the Supreme Court had greenlit her participation, allowing the event to proceed smoothly.
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