The Karnataka government has issued a draft notification amending the Karnataka Cinemas (Regulation) Rules, 2014, to cap movie-ticket prices at ₹200 per show across all theatres and multiplexes. The ceiling, which includes entertainment tax and applies to films in any language, delivers on Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s pledge in his March 2025 budget to make cinema more affordable. Stakeholders have 15 days to submit objections or suggestions before the rule is finalised via gazette. The move revives a similar 2017 attempt that was partly struck down by the state’s High Court, and it echoes Tamil Nadu’s long-standing ₹150 limit. Officials say the measure is meant to boost theatre attendance and support Kannada and other regional films. Exhibitors warn of financial strain. Multiplex operator PVR INOX, which runs 215 screens in Karnataka—about 12.3% of its national footprint—faces the steepest impact. Analyst estimates compiled by Elara Securities suggest the state-level average ticket price would fall roughly 30% from about ₹260, trimming the company’s consolidated average ticket price by 3.7%, revenue by 2.2% and EBITDA by 1.8% over FY26-28. PVR INOX shares slipped nearly 1% in early trade on 16 July. Industry groups are expected to contest the flat cap, arguing premium formats such as IMAX and 4D warrant higher pricing, setting the stage for a potential legal showdown even as the government presses ahead with its affordability drive.