Watching Movies In Bengaluru Multiplexes To Get Cheaper As Karnataka Caps Tickets Price At Rs 200 In Budget

Karnataka Budget 2025: In a major relief to the cinema-loving population in Karnataka and especially in Bengaluru, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has made a 'blockbuster' announcement in state budget 2025: uniform ticket pricing for multiplexes. Henceforth, no matter which multiplex you walk into across Karnataka, the price of a movie ticket will be capped at Rs 200.

Will Movie Ticket Price Finally Get Cheaper?

For years, the disparity between ticket prices in single-screen theaters and multiplexes had been a sore point for Kannada movie lovers. While single screens offered affordable rates, multiplexes often charged exorbitant prices, especially for high-budget Kannada films or foreign releases. Tickets could range from Rs 500 to a staggering Rs 1,000, leaving many fans frustrated and priced out of the experience.

The issue had sparked numerous debates, with audiences urging the government to intervene and regulate the pricing. In Bengaluru, people often complain about the exorbitant ticket prices in multiplexes. Not just movie ticket prices, food sold at the cinema halls are too expensive.

Siddaramaiah Capped Price In 2017, But...

This isn't the first time the state government has attempted to address the issue. Back in 2017, Siddaramaiah had proposed a similar cap of Rs 200 on multiplex tickets. However, the order was met with resistance from theater owners, who secured a stay, forcing the government to withdraw the decision. This time, however, the government seems determined to push through, fueled by widespread public outrage over the unchecked price hikes.

The announcement has been met with jubilation by moviegoers, but also with a note of caution. Many recall the 2017 episode and are urging the government to ensure that this decision is implemented effectively and not left as a mere announcement.

New OTT Platform For Kannada Movies

But the 2025 budget didn't stop at ticket prices. In a significant nod to the growing influence of the film industry, the Karnataka government has decided to recognize the cinema sector as an industry under its industrial policy. This move is expected to bring in more structured support, funding, and opportunities for Kannada filmmakers and artists. Additionally, the government announced plans to launch an OTT platform dedicated exclusively to Kannada cinema, providing a digital space for regional content to thrive.

The issue of uniform pricing had been raised earlier in the legislative council by MLC Govinda Raju, who highlighted the stark differences in ticket prices for Kannada and non-Kannada films. He pointed out that while Kannada movies were often priced modestly, non-Kannada films and big-budget releases were sold at premium rates, sometimes crossing Rs 1,000.

Raju also criticized the exorbitant prices of concessions like popcorn and water bottles, which often left moviegoers feeling exploited. In response, Deputy Chief Minister Dr. G Parameshwar assured that the government would take steps to regulate these practices.