Call to Cap Movie Ticket Prices in Maharashtra Gains Momentum After Karnataka’s Rs 200 Ceiling

Pune, 28th July 2025: Following the Karnataka government’s move to cap cinema ticket prices at ₹200, there is growing demand for a similar policy in Maharashtra to revive audience interest in theatres and support regional cinema, especially Marathi films.

Currently, ticket prices in Maharashtra vary widely—ranging from ₹150 to ₹400 at single-screen theatres and soaring up to ₹1200 in multiplexes. Industry insiders argue that high costs have discouraged regular moviegoers, despite the strong response to occasional discount schemes such as ₹50 shows in Pune, which reportedly led to sold-out screenings.

Marathi film producers, actors, and cultural groups are urging the state government to emulate Karnataka’s initiative to make cinema more affordable and inclusive. They argue that reducing ticket prices could boost the reach and profitability of Marathi films, which often struggle to compete with big-budget Hindi, English, and South Indian movies.

Filmmaker and actor Hemant Dhome welcomed Karnataka’s move and called on Maharashtra to take similar action. “It’s a significant decision that aims to strengthen regional cinema. I hope Maharashtra takes the lead in controlling arbitrary ticket pricing. There should be laws to ensure Marathi films get screens and prime time slots,” Dhome said.

Echoing the sentiment, Baba Patil, president of the NCP’s film and cultural wing, stated, “The state must intervene in the entertainment sector for the welfare of Marathi cinema. Like Karnataka, Maharashtra should take steps to regulate ticket pricing and protect the cultural space for regional films.”

Actor-producer Pushkar Jog emphasized the importance of state intervention, saying, “Marathi audiences often overlook local films. If the government brings in laws ensuring affordable ticket prices and screen access, it will be a crucial step in strengthening the Marathi film industry.”

Advocates believe a regulated pricing model, backed by enforceable laws for screen time allocation, could mark the beginning of a new chapter for Marathi cinema’s growth and visibility in its home state.