Mumbai: How much would you pay to watch Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2: The Rule?
The makers and exhibitors of the December 5 release seem confident in fans' love for the sequel, reflected in the film's exorbitant ticket prices.
In premium theaters in Mumbai and Delhi, tickets range from ₹1,800 to ₹2,400, while other multiplexes have reportedly hiked prices by 10-15%. This aggressive pricing strategy has stirred a debate within trade circles.
Some view the steep pricing as a way to maximize opening collections for Sukumar’s highly anticipated sequel, which is mounted on a ₹500 crore budget. However, critics argue that it risks alienating key audience demographics.
“Films like Pushpa 2 are meant to unite audiences across socio-economic strata, but pricing this high risks alienating key demographics,” says Gurmeet Singh Seble, a cinema owner in Delhi.
He highlights the stark difference in sales between single screens and premium multiplexes: “In single screens in Delhi, where prices range from ₹235 to ₹250, all eight shows are full. But at PVR Plaza, with ticket prices as high as ₹2,500, only 10% of tickets have been sold. Inflated prices like this could harm the movie business.”
In the South, where the film’s hype is particularly strong, ticket prices have also surged. In Telangana, the government has even approved extra shows at higher rates.
While fans eagerly await the next chapter featuring Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, and Fahadh Faasil, many have voiced their displeasure online about the soaring prices.
Trade expert describes the strategy as a gamble.
“The ticket prices in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka are high, which is risky. If audiences don’t enjoy it on the first viewing, the high prices could become a deterrent. The first-day hype is driving this strategy, but sustained high prices will depend on positive word of mouth,” he explains.
As the anticipation for Pushpa 2 grows, its pricing strategy remains a hot topic, with both potential rewards and risks for the filmmakers and exhibitors.
