Why Are Ticket Price Hikes Increasing Only in AP?

There has long been a view that ticket prices should be set keeping ordinary moviegoers who visit theatres with their families in mind. Higher ticket prices were once considered an occasional measure for big-budget films, but the practice has increasingly become common for several releases. In Telangana, permission for higher ticket rates is currently being granted only for select big films, while Andhra Pradesh has seen repeated ticket price hikes for various movies. This has sparked questions among audiences, particularly over why films releasing at regular prices in Telangana are being offered at higher rates in Andhra Pradesh. There has also been criticism over films from other states being priced higher in Andhra Pradesh than in their home markets.

A similar situation is reportedly emerging for the October releases Ranabali, Adarsa Kutumbam and Jailer 2. While the films are expected to release with regular ticket prices in Telangana, tickets in Andhra Pradesh are reportedly set to cost an additional Rs 50 each. The pricing of Jailer 2 has drawn particular attention, as its ticket price in Andhra Pradesh is reportedly higher than in Tamil Nadu. Movie lovers have been discussing the price difference and calling for a clear and consistent ticket pricing policy across regions. With ticket prices increasingly being seen as a factor influencing theatrical results, some believe that excessive pricing could push audiences further towards OTT platforms.