Andhra Pradesh approves ticket hike for 'Kantara Chapter 1' amid industry tensions

In a significant move ahead of the much-anticipated release of Kantara Chapter 1 , the Andhra Pradesh government has officially approved a special hike in ticket prices for the Kannada blockbuster’s sequel. The film, slated to hit screens worldwide on October 2, 2025, will benefit from premium pricing permissions across the state, including multiplexes and single screens.

According to the government order, multiplexes in Andhra Pradesh will now be allowed to charge up to ₹200 per ticket, while single-screen theatres can increase prices to ₹150. The decision extends to both the original Kannada release and the Telugu dubbed version, giving the film a major commercial advantage in one of its largest non-Kannada markets.

Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan personally endorsed the move, highlighting cinema’s power to transcend language barriers. “Films are a bridge between cultures. Stories like Kantara Chapter 1 carry universal resonance, and it is important to ensure audiences from every region can celebrate them,” he said. He also urged film chambers from different states to focus on collaboration instead of confrontation, especially at a time when cross-industry releases have become increasingly common.

However, the decision hasn’t come without friction. Several Telugu film industry associations voiced strong objections, arguing that Telugu productions often face hurdles in Karnataka regarding screen allocation and pricing. They questioned why Andhra Pradesh is extending premium pricing benefits to a Kannada film when Telugu releases struggle under restrictive conditions across the border.