
Wed Dec 04 15:09:25 UTC 2024: ## Allu Arjun Thanks Andhra Pradesh Government for ‘Pushpa 2’ Ticket Price Hike
**Hyderabad, December 4, 2024** – Allu Arjun, star of the highly anticipated Telugu film *Pushpa 2: The Rule*, expressed gratitude to the Andhra Pradesh government for approving a significant increase in ticket prices for the film’s release. The price hike, making *Pushpa 2* the most expensive Telugu film to watch, has sparked both excitement and controversy.
Arjun, in a post on X, lauded the decision as “progressive,” highlighting its positive impact on the Telugu film industry. He specifically thanked Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan. The Andhra Pradesh government’s memo details a price increase of Rs 100-200 depending on the theater type, with six shows scheduled for the December 5th premiere.
However, the steep price increases have drawn criticism. Ticket prices in select theaters across India range from Rs 200 to a staggering Rs 3,000, prompting concerns about accessibility for middle and lower-income families. Manoj Desai, executive director of Mumbai’s Gaiety Galaxy cinema, voiced worry that the high cost may deter these demographics from attending. While some exhibitors in states like Bihar have capped prices around Rs 240, others reported costs as high as Rs 600.
The high cost is driven by a strategy to maximize opening day revenue, with producers aiming to recoup costs within the first few days of release, according to exhibitors. Conversely, trade analyst Ramesh Bala noted that despite the high prices, strong advance bookings suggest high demand, particularly in South India, where several state governments have capped prices at lower rates.
*Pushpa 2: The Rule*, produced by Mythri Movie Makers and Sukumar Writings, is directed by Sukumar and stars Rashmika Mandanna and Fahadh Faasil alongside Arjun. The film’s theatrical release is set for December 5, 2024.