The Telangana government has introduced a revised framework for cinema ticket prices, replacing the location-based system introduced in 2021 with specified minimum and maximum rates for different types of theatres.
The move has received support from the Active Telugu Film Producers Guild, which described the new approach as a positive development for the industry. At the same time, some producers have urged the government to examine the proposed revenue-sharing arrangements carefully.
The revised policy is intended to address the rising costs associated with large-scale film production and modern cinema exhibition while keeping a portion of seats accessible to audiences at lower prices.
Big-budget productions seeking premium ticket rates will not receive the increase automatically. Producers will have to apply to the government, which will assess individual requests before granting permission. One of the key provisions requires theatres to keep 25% of their total seating capacity within the non-premium category.
The rule applies across AC and non-AC theatres, special screens and multiplexes. The aim is to ensure that premium pricing for major releases does not eliminate more affordable options for regular moviegoers.
The policy also recognises the growing investment required for advanced exhibition formats such as IMAX, Dolby Cinema and HDR. With Telugu films increasingly targeting audiences outside India, the government has sought to create a regulated mechanism through which eligible productions can charge higher prices for premium experiences.
The revised framework therefore attempts to balance the financial demands of large-scale filmmaking and modern exhibition with the need to keep cinema tickets accessible to a wider section of the public.
