Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and actor-turned-politician Pawan Kalyan has taken a firm stance on regulating the state’s cinema sector, calling for systemic reforms in theatre management, ticket pricing, and refreshment rates. In a directive issued on Tuesday, Pawan urged officials to implement structured policies that benefit both audiences and the film industry.
He emphasized that filmmakers, including himself, should approach the Telugu Film Chamber (TFC) for ticket price revisions, discouraging individual lobbying. His statement came ahead of the release of his upcoming film Hari Hara Veera Mallu, slated to hit theatres on June 12.
Highlighting the financial burden on movie-going families, Pawan said exorbitant prices for popcorn, soft drinks, and bottled water are discouraging theatre visits. “No family should avoid going to the movies because snacks cost more than the ticket,” he said, as per a briefing from Cinematography Minister K Durgesh. He called on government departments to actively enforce fair pricing and quality standards, initiating inspections and corrective actions where required.
He also ordered an investigation into monopolistic behavior by multiplex chains and single-screen theatres. The aim, he noted, is to ensure a level playing field across the industry, prevent price manipulation, and boost overall audience turnout — which, in turn, could raise state tax revenues.
Cleanliness and basic amenities were another area of focus. Pawan stressed that cinema halls must provide clean drinking water and maintain hygiene, a responsibility he said must be jointly enforced by theatre management and local municipal bodies.
On the issue of theatre closures, Pawan demanded a thorough inquiry into potential political interference, including allegations involving members of his own Janasena Party. “No one is above scrutiny,” he stated.
He concluded by urging the government to consult film industry stakeholders while drafting the state’s comprehensive film development policy. Gathering input from guilds and associations, he said, would ensure that reforms are inclusive and aligned with industry needs.
The directive signals a potentially transformative phase for Andhra Pradesh’s film and entertainment sector, with an emphasis on transparency, affordability, and public welfare.
