From September 13, 2025, the Karnataka government has capped cinema ticket prices across the state. The maximum ticket price, including GST, cannot exceed Rs 236, whether for regular screens or premium formats like IMAX, 4DX, ICE, or recliners.
The decision follows years of public complaints about rising multiplex charges. The cap now makes high-end formats like IMAX far more affordable, something previously unthinkable in big cities.
An exception applies to auditoriums with fewer than 75 seats offering “premium facilities.” Boutique theatres and luxury screens such as PVR Director’s Cut can continue charging higher prices.
Multiplex chains with small recliner-only screens may also bypass the cap, allowing them to protect part of their premium business while still offering capped tickets elsewhere.
The move has been welcomed by the Kannada film chamber and local filmmakers who often struggle to compete in costly urban markets. However, some fear this could impact investments in premium technology and reduce operator margins.
Karnataka has set a major example for affordable cinema pricing. Whether this model will inspire other states to adopt similar caps remains an open question for the industry.
