TELANGANA: High Court Reiterates Ban on Hike in OG Ticket Prices
The Telangana High Court wrapped up arguments in a heated dispute over ticket price hikes for Pawan Kalyan’s action thriller ‘OG.’
After a review petition from the film’s producers, the bench upheld the single judge’s recent directive blocking the increase.
This ruling ensures fans won’t face steeper costs at the box office, at least for now.
Arguments Heat Up in Review Petition
Senior advocate Niranjan Reddy, representing the ‘OG’ team, pushed back against the suspension of the government’s memo.
He highlighted how state approvals had already greenlit modest hikes of Rs.100 for single-screen theaters and Rs.50 for multiplexes, valid only until October 4.
Reddy questioned the petitioner’s selective outrage, pointing to unregulated prices in concerts and sports events.
The court, unmoved, affirmed that no hikes can proceed. It directed the government to submit a detailed counter-affidavit explaining the rationale behind the proposed changes.
This step aims to scrutinize the executive order’s alignment with cinema regulations.
Key Points from the Defense
Reddy drew sharp comparisons to underscore perceived inconsistencies in pricing oversight:
- A coffee at a luxury hotel runs Rs 500, yet no one sues for affordability.
- Diljit Dosanjh’s concerts fetch thousands per ticket, set freely by organizers.
- An IPL match or Delhi screening of ‘OG’ could cost Rs 1,500, without court challenges.
- Music shows by stars like Anirudh Ravichander dictate their own rates in Hyderabad.
He argued that past government nods for similar hikes addressed industry appeals.
If Rs.150 feels burdensome, viewers could opt for standard pricing or later showtimes, rather than demanding first-day access at whim.
Path Forward for the Case
The next session is set for October 9, giving both sides time to bolster their positions.
Until then, theaters must stick to base rates, potentially affecting early bookings and refunds.
This development spotlights the delicate balance between artistic promotion and consumer protection in India’s film sector.
The standoff raises broader questions about equitable entertainment pricing in a diverse market.
As ‘OG’ gears up for its September 25 release, the verdict could influence how future blockbusters navigate regulatory hurdles.