What Actions is Pawan Kalyan Taking Against Cinema Theatre Shutdown Calls?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Pawan Kalyan initiates investigation into cinema shutdown calls.
- Focus on regulating food prices and ticket pricing.
- Directives emphasize transparency in industry practices.
- Shutdown call coincides with the release of 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu'.
- Government aims to foster a positive film industry environment.
Amaravati, May 27 (NationPress) Andhra Pradesh's Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has initiated an investigation to uncover the entities behind the recent demand for the closure of cinema theatres within the state.
The actor-turned-politician has instructed Cinematography Minister Kandula Durgesh to delve into the origins of the shutdown call, emphasizing that if members of Jana Sena are implicated, appropriate actions must be enforced.
In a series of directives aimed at optimizing cinema management, he also sought to regulate the prices of food items offered in theatres.
Additionally, he mandated that any requests for increased ticket prices for films, including his own release, must be submitted through the Film Chamber of Commerce.
The directions from the Jana Sena chief arose amidst a controversy triggered by a faction of cinema theatre owners advocating for a shutdown of multiplexes to support their demands for a larger share of profits.
This shutdown call has stirred tensions, particularly as it coincides with the upcoming release of Pawan Kalyan's film 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu', slated for June 12.
Pawan Kalyan has consulted with Kandula Durgesh regarding the shutdown call, especially in light of the denials from two prominent producers regarding their involvement.
He insisted that producers and related personnel must reach out to the government via the Telugu Film Chamber for any matters pertaining to ticket price adjustments.
In a statement from the Deputy Chief Minister's office, it was revealed that discussions included the reasons behind the shutdown announcement and the alleged involvement of a film producer and politician.
He expressed concern over the shutdown announcement, which has led to an unfavorable scenario within the film industry, and reiterated his commitment to take action against any involved Jana Sena leaders if necessary.
Pawan Kalyan directed the Cinematography Minister to inform industry stakeholders, including the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce, Producers' Council, Movie Artists Association, and Directors' Associations, that the government is dedicated to fostering a positive environment for the film industry, free from threats to producers, actors, and directors.
Moreover, he stressed the importance of regulating the quality and pricing of food and beverages in theatres.
He aimed to ensure that cinema hall management in the state operates efficiently, thereby enhancing audience satisfaction. He noted that the prices of food items, such as popcorn and soft drinks, often exceed those of tickets.
Officials from the relevant departments have been urged to monitor both the pricing and quality of these items. The government has taken note of a potential monopoly in the food and beverage sector within cinemas, prompting the suggestion for an inquiry by the Cinematography Minister.
Pawan Kalyan believes that reducing food prices could lead to an increase in audience numbers, subsequently boosting tax revenue, and has called on the Tax Department to investigate this matter.
Furthermore, he has encouraged the Minister to gather insights from various sectors of the film industry in relation to a comprehensive film development policy that the state government wishes to implement.