Telangana High Court Hears Petition Over ‘Pushpa-2’ Ticket Price Hike

The highly anticipated Telugu film ‘Pushpa-2’ is set to release day after tomorrow, with benefit shows scheduled to begin tomorrow night at 9:30 PM. Ahead of the release, the Telangana government approved an increase in ticket prices for the movie. However, this decision has sparked controversy, leading to a petition being filed in the Telangana High Court.

The petitioner alleged that ticket prices for benefit shows are being inflated by an additional ₹800 per ticket. During today’s hearing, the petitioner’s lawyer argued that the higher ticket rates, applicable for the first 15 days of the movie's release, place an undue financial burden on the public. They further pointed out that benefit shows, scheduled at unusual hours like 1:00 AM and 4:00 AM, create inconvenience for audiences.

The court raised questions about the additional costs imposed on moviegoers, including overpriced popcorn and bottled water sold in theaters. It also remarked that a group of ten attending a benefit show would incur expenses of ₹8,000.

In response, the producer’s lawyer defended the price hike, stating that the film was made on a massive budget and that the government had granted permission for the increased ticket rates. They also clarified that benefit shows are primarily intended for the actor’s fanbase.

The court granted time for the producer’s side to file a counter-response and postponed the next hearing to December 17.