The Karnataka High Court has once again extended its interim stay on the ₹200 movie ticket price cap, keeping multiplex owners free to charge above the limit for now. This decision has become a hot topic not just for cinephiles but also for the trade, especially since Rishab Shetty’s Kantara Chapter 1 is dominating theatres across Karnataka.
Court’s Key Observations:
In its latest ruling, the court continued its earlier stay (granted on September 23, 2025) against the Karnataka State Film Chamber of Commerce’s order to cap cinema tickets at ₹200. The case, filed by the Multiplex Association of India, has put a pause on the state’s attempt to regulate movie pricing.
Interestingly, the bench also issued a set of guidelines for multiplexes and audiences:
- All cash transactions must be digitally traceable.
- Multiplex managers are required to countersign cash registers daily.
- Viewers have been advised to retain their tickets in case the court later upholds the ₹200 cap and orders refunds.
The court stated that if the petitioner (Multiplex Association of India) loses the final judgment, multiplexes will need to refund the extra ticket amount (excluding GST) to customers. A detailed refund mechanism will have to be submitted within 45 days of such a ruling.
What This Means for Kantara Chapter 1:
The timing of this order has sparked debate, especially with Kantara Chapter 1’s blockbuster run. Without the price cap, multiplexes in Bengaluru, Hubli, and other cities are selling tickets well above ₹200, yet this has not slowed audiences.
- On Friday, the film recorded 82% occupancy across Kannada shows.
- Night shows in key cities even hit 95-100% occupancy.
- In just two days, the film has already crossed the ₹100 crore mark in India, and projections suggest it will be among the year’s top-grossing films.
For now, the absence of a cap works in favor of the film’s collections. However, if the final judgment reinstates the cap, multiplexes may have to refund the difference to customers, which would impact theatre revenues rather than the film’s earnings.
The Bigger Picture:
The dispute underscores the long-running debate between regulating cinema ticket prices for accessibility and allowing theatres to set dynamic rates, especially during festive releases. With Kantara Chapter 1 riding high on festive season demand, the current stay order ensures that neither multiplexes nor the film’s momentum face any immediate hurdles.
Conclusion:
As the legal battle continues, one thing is clear — Kantara Chapter 1 is unstoppable at the box office. Whether or not refunds come into play later, Rishab Shetty’s mythological prequel has already secured its place as a cultural and commercial juggernaut.
📌 5 FAQs on Karnataka HC Stay and Kantara Chapter 1
Q1. What is the Karnataka HC order regarding movie ticket prices?
The Karnataka High Court has extended its interim stay on the ₹200 ticket price cap, allowing multiplexes to charge above this limit for now.
Q2. Why did the Multiplex Association of India file the case?
They challenged the Karnataka State Film Chamber of Commerce’s decision to cap ticket prices, arguing it affects their business and operational flexibility.
Q3. Will this order impact Kantara Chapter 1 box office collections?
Currently, the absence of a price cap allows multiplexes to sell tickets at higher rates. Kantara Chapter 1 has benefited, recording 82% occupancy and earning over ₹100 crore in the first two days.
Q4. What happens if the final judgment enforces the ₹200 cap?
Multiplexes may need to refund the extra ticket amounts collected electronically during the stay period (excluding GST) to customers.
Q5. Are viewers advised to keep their tickets?
Yes, the court has asked moviegoers to retain tickets for potential reimbursement if the price cap is upheld later.
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