Fulfilling a budget announcement made earlier this year by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the Karnataka government has formally issued an order capping cinema ticket prices for regional films at ₹200.
This move was implemented by amending the Karnataka Cinemas (Regulation) Rules, 2014. A newly added sub-rule under Rule 55 specifies that the price of tickets in all theatres, including multiplexes, must not exceed ₹200 per show. The amount is inclusive of entertainment tax.
The official order, dated July 15, was signed on behalf of the Governor by the Under Secretary to the government in the Home Department’s prisons and cinema division.
In his budget speech on March 7, CM Siddaramaiah had outlined the plan to regulate ticket rates to make regional films, particularly Kannada cinema, more accessible to audiences. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce and the Karnataka Film Exhibitors Association supported the initiative, despite reservations from multiplex operators concerned about reduced earnings.
This price cap is also intended to address widespread complaints about high ticket costs in premium theatres. A similar measure was introduced in 2017 during Siddaramaiah’s earlier tenure as chief minister, but its enforcement proved challenging. Multiplex owners challenged the earlier decision in the Karnataka High Court, citing operational losses.
The latest order aims to standardise ticket prices across the state and attract more viewers to theatres, particularly during festive seasons and weekends.