Karnataka Audience Win Big As Court Blocks Price Limit

A wave of relief has hit moviegoers in Karnataka as the High Court stayed the government’s ticket price cap. Cinemas can now charge above Rs. 200 until the court delivers a final verdict. For audiences, this means more options, especially for premium shows in multiplexes.

The issue started when the Siddaramaiah government announced during the 2025–26 budget session that all movie tickets, across languages and theatres, should not exceed Rs. 200. The aim was to make cinema accessible to everyone. From single screens to multiplexes, all shows were to follow this limit, including the entertainment tax. However, this decision made some theatre owners and film producers worried because they believed it might impact their business and their ability to show expensive movies.

Big cinema chains and film studios disagreed with the notice and filed lawsuits in the Karnataka High Court. The court decided to put a temporary hold on the price rule, so it can't be applied right now. This means the film industry can keep showing movies without facing sudden financial problems.

For audiences, the stay is a win, keeping a variety of shows and ticket options open. Premium screenings and weekend blockbusters can continue without the Rs. 200 limit. While the final verdict is still pending, the ruling balances public interest with industry sustainability, giving both moviegoers and theatre owners temporary relief.