Sat Jan 04 14:40:00 UTC 2025: ## AP Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan Defends Movie Ticket Price Hike
**Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh:** Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan defended the recent hike in movie ticket prices, stating that the increase generates GST revenue for the state government. He made these comments at the pre-release event of the upcoming Telugu film “Game Changer,” starring Ram Charan and Kiara Advani, in Rajahmundry.
Kalyan addressed concerns regarding negative publicity surrounding the price hike, explaining that it is a matter of supply and demand. He drew a parallel to his own past experiences, recalling purchasing black market tickets for films, highlighting how such practices deprive the government of revenue. He emphasized that the ticket price increases for his own films were not implemented by the current government, contrasting it with the previous government’s decision to even reduce ticket prices for “Bheemla Nayak”.
Kalyan further clarified that the ruling coalition government does not hold any antipathy towards the film industry, despite not receiving support from all actors. He stressed the importance of unity within the Indian film industry, urging for professionalism and collaboration, rather than focusing on individual actors in the ticket price debate. He insisted that producers or trade union bodies, not just heroes, should be the ones engaging in discussions about ticket pricing.
He lauded the legacy of NTR, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect within the industry. He also praised the current Chief Minister’s support for Telugu cinema. Finally, Kalyan encouraged investment in Andhra Pradesh’s film industry, advocating for the establishment of stunt schools, production design schools, and training programs in various aspects of filmmaking, to empower the state’s youth.
First Piper 