Did the Telangana HC Suspend the Ticket Price Hike for 'Akhanda 2'?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, the Telangana High Court has intervened to suspend the government's order that permitted a ticket price hike for 'Akhanda 2'. As fans eagerly await the film's release, this development raises questions about the implications for cinema-goers and the film industry alike.
Key Takeaways
- Telangana High Court suspends ticket price hike.
- Government's order had allowed increased prices for 'Akhanda 2'.
- Legal challenges raise questions about consumer rights.
- 20% of additional revenue goes to Movie Artistes Welfare Association.
- Impact on fans and cinema industry remains uncertain.
Hyderabad, Dec 11 (NationPress) The Telangana High Court has temporarily halted the state government's directive that permitted an increase in ticket prices for the Balakrishna-led film 'Akhanda 2'. The film is set to premiere on Friday, with an initial screening occurring on Thursday evening.
The High Court issued notices to the Home Ministry and the film's producers, 14 Reels Plus, in response to a petition challenging the circular from the Principal Secretary (Home). A further hearing on the matter has been scheduled for Friday.
On Wednesday, the government had announced a circular permitting the price hike for cinema tickets for 'Akhanda 2'.
This included a special premiere at 8 p.m. on Thursday, with tickets priced at Rs 600. For the first three days after release, single screens are allowed to add Rs 50 per ticket, while multiplexes can increase prices by Rs 100.
Additionally, the government mandated that 20 percent of the extra revenue from the increased ticket prices be allocated to the Movie Artistes Welfare Association.
Lawyer Srinivas Reddy contested the order and requested an urgent hearing. After resuming post-lunch, Justice N. V. Shravan Kumar suspended the government's order.
The petitioner's counsel asserted that the circular that allowed the increased ticket prices for 'Akhanda 2' contravenes prior court rulings.
Previously, in September, the High Court had suspended a government memo that sanctioned higher ticket prices for the Telugu film 'OG'.
This memo, issued by the Principal Secretary (Home), had permitted a special screening at 9 p.m. on September 24, charging Rs 800 per ticket (including GST) until October 4.
The High Court's ruling has introduced uncertainty regarding the premiere of 'Akhanda 2', as many fans of Balakrishna had already purchased tickets at Rs 600.
'Balakrishna's Akhanda 2: Thaandavam' faced delays previously due to legal and financial complications affecting its release.
The setbacks were a result of a court dispute in Tamil Nadu between Eros International Media Limited and 14 Reels Plus Entertainment Private Limited. The Madras High Court had issued a restraining order against the film’s release over an arbitral dispute concerning approximately Rs 28 crore.
Point of View
This intervention by the Telangana High Court highlights the ongoing tension between government regulations and the film industry. It raises important questions about consumer rights and the balance of interests in the entertainment sector, reflecting a broader trend of judicial oversight in commercial practices.
NationPress
12/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Telangana High Court suspend the ticket price hike?
The suspension was based on a petition challenging the government's circular, which was argued to violate previous court orders.
What are the new ticket prices for 'Akhanda 2'?
The government had set the ticket price for the premiere at Rs 600, with additional charges for single screens and multiplexes.
What is the significance of the 20% revenue allocation?
The government mandated that 20% of the additional revenue from the price increase be contributed to the Movie Artistes Welfare Association.
How does this ruling affect fans?
The ruling has created uncertainty for fans who already purchased tickets for the premiere at the increased price.
Is there a history of similar cases?
Yes, the Telangana High Court previously suspended a government memo that allowed higher ticket prices for another Telugu film, indicating a pattern of judicial scrutiny.
