In recent years, cinema ticket prices in India have steadily risen, prompting some patrons to reconsider their movie-going habits. A report from Ormax Media highlights that the average cost of a film ticket increased by 47% over the past five years, with the average ticket price (ATP) moving from 91 rupees in 2020 to 134 rupees in 2024. Notably, the ATP experienced only a 3% increase between 2023 and 2024, suggesting some stabilization in pricing.
Young moviegoer Sahil Arora noted that a ticket for a recent Bollywood release cost him 500 rupees, equivalent to a significant portion of his weekly allowance, and he opted to forgo purchasing popcorn due to high prices. Harsh Verma, another cinema enthusiast, reminisced about more affordable outings to theaters 15 years ago, stating that such experiences have become financially infeasible.
Data indicates a 6% decline in cinema footfall in 2024 compared to 2023, which reflects ongoing challenges for movie theaters. Many single-screen theaters that offered lower ticket prices have largely been replaced by upscale multiplexes, raising concerns about accessibility. Some theater owners claim that ticket prices reflect the experience and amenities provided, maintaining that audiences continue to visit in large numbers.
Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, from multiplex chain PVR INOX, reported an increase in footfall, up to 151 million in 2024 from 140 million in 2023, and he stresses flexibility in pricing, with weekday discounts in place. However, he opposes state-imposed price caps, citing the need for stable revenue to sustain quality.
Industry experts note that while lower prices may draw audiences, they also warn against sacrificing profitability. In light of rising streaming service popularity, particularly during the pandemic, experts observe that the competition for viewership remains strong as households increasingly prefer home viewing options. The industry, however, maintains that cinema viewing offers a unique experience that cannot be replicated at home.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cewnrqydny0o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss