Daijiworld Media Network – Telangana

Telangana, Jan 12: The Telangana government has reversed its decision to allow a ticket price hike for Ram Charan's latest film Game Changer, following a directive from the Telangana high court. The reversal, announced on January 10, aligns with the court's interim order to halt all early morning shows of the film until concerns related to public interest, health, and safety are properly addressed. The revised ticket pricing structure will be implemented from January 16.

On January 3, the state government had granted a ticket price hike after a request from the makers of Game Changer. Under the original order, multiplex theatres were to charge an additional Rs 150, while single theatres would charge Rs 100, including GST, on the opening day of the film, January 10. Furthermore, the government had permitted the screening of five shows daily from January 11 to 19 with added charges of Rs 100 for multiplexes and Rs 50 for single theatres.

However, on January 10, the high court issued an interim directive, instructing the government to review the price hike within 24 hours. The court also mandated that early morning shows be prohibited. The government's reversal is a result of this directive, which prioritizes the public's health and safety concerns.

Game Changer, a significant release for Ram Charan, marks his first solo project since the massive success of RRR. The film, directed by Shankar, is crucial for both the actor and the director, as it follows the underwhelming performance of Indian 2. Despite the controversy over the ticket price hike, the film has performed well at the box office, grossing Rs 72.5 cr in just two days.

Opposition leaders, including BRS MLA T Harish Rao, criticized the decision, pointing to the Congress government's approval of the price hike. The ongoing developments regarding the film’s screening reflect the evolving discourse surrounding cinema ticket pricing in the state.