Multiplex Owners Panic After Government’s ₹200 Slash

Karnataka’s government just pulled off a surprise. All movie tickets across the state, whether in big-city multiplexes or small-town single screens, are now capped at ₹200. No special rates, no premium pricing. This decision has caught the film industry off guard, especially theatre owners in places like Bengaluru who rely on flexible pricing.

For many people, this comes as a relief. In cities like Hubballi and Belagavi, going to a movie had started to feel like a luxury. Multiplexes in Bengaluru often charged ₹300 or more, especially for big films. Now, with tickets fixed at ₹200, watching a movie on the big screen might actually feel normal again.

But theatre chains aren’t smiling. Many of them say ₹200 isn’t enough to cover their costs, from AC bills to tech upgrades. Some are even talking about going to court. With premium theatres, the price cap could mess with long-term plans and business models.

There’s another problem no one’s ignoring: black market sales. Fixed prices might push theatre owners to sell tickets off the record at higher rates. If that happens, it’ll need tight checks from authorities. Right now, it’s a wait-and-watch moment for everyone, the audience, the owners, and officials alike.