Recently, the government of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh issued GOs permitting the hike of ticket prices for the much-anticipated film Pushpa 2: The Rule. Meanwhile, a petition was filed at the Telangana High Court challenging the hike in ticket prices.
The court heard the petition today. The petitioner’s lawyer argued that an additional Rs. 800 per ticket is being charged for benefit shows, and these inflated prices will burden fans.
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On the other side, the lawyer representing Mythri Movie Makers defended the price hike, stating it was necessary due to the film’s high production costs. The judge noted that the ticket rates were hiked as permitted by the government.
Meanwhile, the petitioner’s lawyer responded by highlighting the inconvenience caused by early morning shows at 1 AM and 4 AM and argued that the extra revenue generated was not being allocated to charitable funds or relief efforts but rather benefitting the producer directly.
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During the proceedings, the judge observed that ticket prices were comparable to the inflated cost of popcorn and water bottles in theatres and asked, “If someone attends a benefit show with a family of ten, wouldn’t it cost Rs. 8,000?”
The producer’s lawyer clarified that benefit shows cater primarily to fan groups, justifying the increased rates.
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Upon hearing the arguments, the court stated that release cannot be stopped at the last minute due to this reason. However, the court adjourned the hearing to December 17.
Until then, the ticket prices the production company sets will remain in effect. Thus, there will not be any legal hurdles for the film during the release.
