New Rule: Movie Tickets Capped at ₹200 in Karnataka—Multiplexes Shocked
In a game-changing move, the Karnataka government has officially proposed a movie ticket price cap of ₹200 across all cinema halls, including multiplexes and single screens, regardless of language or screen format. This new rule has sent shockwaves through the film exhibition industry, especially in major urban centers like Bengaluru.
Multiplexes Hit Hard
Until now, multiplexes in Bengaluru and other tier-1 cities like Hubballi, Dharwad, and Belagavi have followed flexible pricing models. Ticket prices often exceeded ₹300–₹400, especially for big-budget Hollywood and pan-India Indian films. But with the ₹200 cap, that pricing freedom is gone.
While this is great news for the average moviegoer, especially students and families, multiplex owners and the Karnataka Multiplex Association are reportedly planning legal action, calling the cap “financially unsustainable.”
Big stars like Mahesh Babu, who are now investing in large-scale multiplex chains, may also see their business models disrupted by this sudden regulation.
Black Market Concerns
Experts worry the ₹200 cap may push black market sales. With ticket demand exceeding supply and fixed prices limiting revenue, some fear that theater owners may sell tickets unofficially at higher prices. Government enforcement will be key in preventing such illegal practices.
Impact on Pan-India Films
While small- and mid-budget Kannada films may benefit from increased accessibility, the ₹200 limit could be a major blow to pan-India releases like Pushpa 2, Leo, or Salaar, which thrive on premium pricing and opening-day momentum.
Telugu and Tamil films have historically outperformed Kannada films in Karnataka—a trend that may not continue under this pricing model.
If other southern states adopt similar caps, South India’s overall box office revenue could be significantly impacted.
