Giving a major boost to the film industry, the government has unveiled key policies, including a ₹3 crore allocation and granting the sector industry status. Ticket prices across all theatres, including multiplexes, will be capped at ₹200. Additionally, the cinema industry will now enjoy benefits under the State’s Industrial Policy, said Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
Welcoming the policies, Sandalwood filmmaker P. Sheshadri, known for his movies Munnudi, and Atithi, noted that been a long-standing demand from the film industry and audiences alike, aimed at making cinema more accessible to the general public.
While Kannada filmmaker Prithvi Konanur called this a great move, he felt ticket prices should have been capped even lower. “Cost is one of the main reasons for the overall reduction in footfall in cinemas,” he noted.
Another long-pending request is also being fulfilled, according to Sheshadri. The construction of movie halls at the Karnataka Chalanachitra Academy venue will enhance cinematic infrastructure by providing a dedicated space for film screenings, cultural events, and industry-related activities. “It marks a significant step forward in strengthening Karnataka’s film ecosystem, and I truly appreciate the government’s commitment to supporting the arts,” he added.
Sheshadri suggested a differential pricing model—a reduced ticket price of ₹120–150 for Kannada films while maintaining the ₹200 cap for non-Kannada films to strategically boost the local film industry.
Filmmaker, screenwriter, and actor Pawan Kumar highlighted the benefits of granting industry status to the sector. “This will help daily wage workers in the industry by ensuring access to benefits such as insurance and provident funds. If implemented effectively, it will bring more structure to the industry and create opportunities for increased investment,” he said.