Karnataka Caps Cinema Ticket Prices At Rs 200 Across State

The Karnataka government has issued a notification amending the Karnataka Cinema (Regulation) Rules, 2014, to cap cinema ticket prices at Rs 200 across all theatres, including multiplexes, effective from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette. The move, announced on Friday, aims to make movie-going more affordable for residents while balancing the interests of the film industry. The price cap excludes taxes, ensuring uniformity in base ticket costs statewide.

An exception has been made for premium multi-screen cinemas with 75 seats or fewer, which are exempt from the Rs 200 limit due to their specialised facilities. This exemption acknowledges the higher operational costs of such venues, often equipped with advanced technology like 4K projection or Dolby Atmos sound systems.

In July 2025, the state government, under Section 19 of the Karnataka Cinema (Regulation) Act, 1964, released draft rules and sought feedback from stakeholders within 15 days. After reviewing suggestions and objections from theatre owners, producers, and the public, the government finalised the Karnataka Cinemas (Regulation) (Amendment) Rules, 2025. The consultation process aimed to address concerns about affordability while supporting the state’s vibrant film industry.

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This decision comes amid rising ticket prices in urban centres like Bengaluru, where multiplex tickets often exceed Rs 500. The cap is expected to benefit audiences in both urban and rural areas, though some multiplex operators worry it may impact revenue for high-budget films. The notification marks Karnataka’s first major cinema pricing reform in over a decade.

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