Telangana Revises Cinema Ticket Rates, Mandates Affordable Access
New rules mandate 25% non-premium seats to keep movie tickets affordable
The home department reclassified cinema theatres and fixed revised minimum and maximum ticket rates for non‑AC, AC, special theatres and multiplexes. The order replaces earlier norms issued in December 2021. The revision follows representations from the Active Telugu Film Producers Guild (ATFPG) and several production houses seeking higher ticket caps for big‑budget films and a streamlined approval process.
Under the new structure, ticket prices vary based on theatre type and seating category, including regular and recliner formats. For instance, non‑AC theatres will have a price band starting from Rs 30 up to Rs 70, while AC theatres range from Rs 50 to Rs 150. Premium formats such as multiplex recliners can go up to Rs 300 per ticket.
The government has also defined special theatres as standalone single screens equipped with advanced features such as 7.1 surround sound, 2K/4K projection and large‑format screens, allowing them pricing on par with multiplex standards.
All theatres must reserve 25 per cent of total seating as non‑premium to ensure affordability irrespective of category. This quota will be calculated on the total seating capacity of each theatre.
The order clarifies that ticket prices are exclusive of GST but include maintenance charges of Rs 5 for AC theatres and Rs 3 for non‑AC theatres. Online booking service charges will be levied separately.
Air‑cooled theatres have been merged with AC theatres under a single pricing category. However, such theatres have been given a two‑year transition period to upgrade to full air‑conditioning, failing which they must charge as non‑AC theatres.
Cinema Ticket Pricing in Telangana
Category Seat Type Price Range (Rs )
Single Screens – Non‑AC Non‑Premium 30 – 70
Premium 50 – 100
Single Screens – AC Non‑Premium 50 – 150
Premium 100 – 200
Multiplexes Regular 100 – 250
Recliners 200 – 300
Special Theatres Non‑Premium 100 – 250
Premium 200 – 300
Note:
· All theatres must reserve 25% of seats as non‑premium to ensure affordability.
· Prices exclude GST but include maintenance charges (Rs 5 for AC, Rs 3 for non‑AC).
· Online booking service charges apply separately.
