Karnataka Caps Movie Ticket Price at Rs 200: Multiplexes Now Follow Uniform Pricing

In a major step to make cinema more affordable, the Karnataka government has proposed a new rule to cap movie ticket prices at Rs 200, including all taxes. This cap covers all theatres in the state, including high-end multiplexes, and applies to movies in any language. The government issued this announcement on Tuesday through a draft notification, which amends the Karnataka Cinemas (Regulation) Rules, 2014.

Officials named the new rules the Karnataka Cinemas (Regulation) (Amendment) Rules, 2025. After finalizing these rules, the government will implement them across Karnataka. Authorities have asked the public and film industry stakeholders to submit objections or suggestions within 15 days from the date of publication in the Official Gazette. People must send their responses to the Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, Vidhana Soudha, Bengaluru – 560001.

Government Targets Lower Cinema Costs

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah made this move part of his 2025-26 Budget promise. He confirmed that the government would cap ticket prices uniformly across all theatres, including luxury multiplexes. His goal is to make cinema more affordable for a wider audience, especially in cities like Bengaluru, Hubballi, Dharwad, and Belagavi, where ticket prices often rise sharply for blockbuster films.

Many regular moviegoers have welcomed this price cap. However, multiplex owners and theatre chains have expressed concerns. They believe that Rs 200 falls short of covering their costs, especially for theatres with premium facilities. Some multiplex associations have even started planning legal action against the decision.

New Rule May Disrupt Southern Box Office

This fixed pricing may impact the revenue of big-budget or pan-India films. For example, recent hits like Pushpa 2 and Leo earned big numbers in Karnataka. Under the new price limit, similar films might not reach the same level of business. Producers from Telugu and Tamil industries, whose films often outperform Kannada films in Karnataka, also fear revenue losses.

Film experts warn that this rule could also fuel black market ticket sales. To prevent this, the government must carry out strict checks and monitor theatre practices closely to stop unofficial ticket hikes.

State Plans More Support for Film Industry

Along with this reform, the government will also build a multiplex theatre complex on a 2.5-acre plot owned by the Karnataka Film Academy in Nandini Layout, Bengaluru. Officials will develop this project through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

To promote Kannada cinema, the state will also launch its own OTT platform. Moreover, the government has decided to give the cinema sector full “industry status”, allowing theatres and filmmakers to receive benefits under the state’s Industrial Policy.

Through these multiple initiatives, Karnataka aims to support both public interest and industry growth, although proper execution remains a challenge.

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