Salman Khan Advocates for Nationwide Movie Ticket Price Cap
During a promotional event for his upcoming film Sikandar in Mumbai, Bollywood superstar Salman Khan expressed his strong support for a price cap on movie tickets, similar to a recent initiative by the Karnataka government. He emphasized the need for affordable cinema experiences, not only for ticket prices but also for snacks like popcorn and cold drinks. Khan highlighted the significant shortage of cinema halls in India, calling for more theaters to accommodate the growing demand for films.
Call for Price Regulation on Tickets and Snacks
In a candid discussion, Salman Khan voiced his desire for a regulated price cap on movie tickets across India. He stated, “I really want that there’s a price cap on movie tickets. I also feel that there should be capping on the prices of popcorn and cold drinks. The producer should also get a share out of it.” His remarks come in light of the Karnataka government’s recent decision to limit movie ticket prices to Rs. 200, a move he believes should be implemented nationwide to ensure affordability for all moviegoers.
Khan’s comments reflect a growing concern among filmmakers and audiences alike regarding the rising costs associated with cinema attendance. He pointed out that many fans are forced to pay inflated prices on the black market for tickets, which can reach exorbitant amounts. By advocating for a price cap, he hopes to create a more equitable environment for cinema lovers across the country.
India’s Cinema Hall Shortage
Salman Khan also addressed the pressing issue of India’s cinema hall shortage, stating that the country is at least 20,000 theaters short of meeting the demand for film screenings. He lamented the fact that many regions, including towns with significant populations, lack access to local theaters. “We are releasing our films in just 6,000 screens,” he noted, highlighting the disparity between the number of films produced and the available venues for viewing them.
He shared a personal anecdote about filming Bajrangi Bhaijaan in Mandawa, Rajasthan, a town that has produced numerous billionaires but lacks a single cinema. “You have to drive 2 ½ hours to see a film,” he explained, underscoring the challenges faced by audiences in accessing entertainment. Khan’s comments serve as a call to action for the industry to invest in expanding cinema infrastructure to better serve the public.
The Evolution of Mass Cinema
When discussing the concept of mass cinema, Khan remarked on the changing dynamics between different audience segments. He observed that the distinction between mass and class cinema has blurred, with audiences in multiplexes now engaging in the same enthusiastic behavior traditionally seen in single-screen theaters. “The separation between mass and class cinema has gone away,” he stated, noting that even in upscale venues, audiences are becoming more vocal and interactive during screenings.
Khan pointed out that many viewers prefer the experience of watching films in iconic theaters like Gaiety-Galaxy, despite the availability of more luxurious options. He mentioned that audiences often return to these venues to catch details they may have missed due to the lively atmosphere. His insights reflect a broader trend in Indian cinema where the communal experience of watching films is cherished, regardless of the setting.
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