Cinema ticket fares revised

Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi on Sunday announced a revision in ticket fares for theatres in Tamil Nadu.

Multiplexes with three or more theatres, having additional entertainment features, food counter and airconditioning could charge Rs. 120 (maximum) and Rs. 10 (minimum) per ticket. Multiplexes meeting specified norms could charge a maximum of Rs. 95 and a minimum of Rs. 10.

Those with two or more air-conditioned halls, a total seating capacity of 800, a generator with 100 per cent power back-up, digital projection and sound system and any five additional specified features could charge a maximum of Rs. 85 and minimum of Rs. 10.

The specified norms for multiplexes are that there should be two or more airconditioned halls, a total seating capacity of 800, seats at least 20 inch wide, a 41.5-inch gap between two rows, a generator with 100 per cent power back-up, digital projection and sound system, three primary speakers, an effective surround system, toilets with automatic flush, airconditioned lobbies, computerised ticketing, online ticketing and door delivery of tickets.

Prarthana, the only open-air theatre in South India, will continue to charge the current rates, an official press release said.

On December 20, the State government fixed the minimum and maximum rates at Rs. 10 and Rs 50 for airconditioned theatres and Rs 7. and Rs. 30 for non-AC theatres within the corporation limits. In municipal areas, the minimum and maximum rates were Rs. 5 and Rs. 40 (for AC theatres) and Rs. 4 and Rs 30 for non-AC theatres. The rates were to come into effect from January 1.

Members of the Theatre Owners Association of Chennai, welcoming the revisions, had requested the Chief Minister to reconsider the rates specified for multiplexes.

The revision follows the request.

Source : Hindu