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GST burden on moviegoers likely
With lack of clarity from the state governments of AP, TS on revising ticket rates or abolition of ET in the new tax regime beginning from July 1, Telugu film fraternity has reportedly resolved to shift the 28% of GST burden on to viewers, according to reliable sources in the industry.Â
​Hyderabad: With lack of clarity from the state governments of AP, TS on revising ticket rates or abolition of ET in the new tax regime beginning from July 1, Telugu film fraternity has reportedly resolved to shift the 28% of GST burden on to viewers, according to reliable sources in the industry.
“It is true that GST is 18% for ticket up to Rs 100 and 28% for tickets above Rs 101 but we haven’t planned immediate hike,” says Vijayender Reddy, ex-president of Telangana Film Chamber of Commerce. “Our delegation requested the TS government to revise ticket rates or abolish ET and above all rein in local bodies from levying new taxes, but nothing is finalised yet,” adds Reddy.
In simple terms, movie buffs have to cough up more to watch films releasing from July 1, like “Ninnu Kori” starring Nani and Niveda Thomas on July 7 and ‘SPYder’ in August besides paying more for films already in theatres like ‘Duvvada Jagannadam’ and others.
“It’s true that exhibitors are planning to hike ticket rates in AP and TS to shift the burden of GST on viewers, which is unfair and uncalled for, since it will dent the already depleting footfalls at theatres,” rues producer Satyanarayana who feels that it will impact numerous small films, than star-studded films. “Even with present ticket rates of Rs 25 to Rs 100 in 1,500 single theatres in TS, AP, more than 10 to 12 small films bombed in the last few weeks. Any more hike will dent footfalls,” he adds.
Already, some single screens got relief from court and hiked the rates from Rs 10 a ticket Rs 25 and upper class tickets between Rs 50 and Rs 120. “Hundreds of theatres run by lessees in both the states are selling Rs 70 ticket at Rs 120 and fleecing viewers, but now they are trying to put the GST burden on masses and rob their only source of entertainment, ” adds another producer Sripada.
