Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, on Friday, March 7, declared that movie ticket prices across the state, including in multiplexes, will be capped at Rs 200.
While presenting the 16th Budget in the assembly, Siddaramaiah revealed plans to launch a dedicated OTT platform aimed at promoting Kannada films as part of the Rs 4.095 lakh crore Budget for 2025-26.
Additionally, the Budget earmarked Rs 51,034 crore to fund the state government’s five flagship guarantee schemes, as well.
Producers Unable to Secure Major OTTs
Recently, leading Kannada actor and producers, including Rakshit Shetty and Rishabh Shetty, voiced their frustration over the lack of support from major OTT platforms for Kannada content. Consequently, Shetty’s Paramvah Studio launched its web series Ekam on its own platform in July 2024 after failing to secure another online streaming partner.
To support Kannada cinema, the CM has also set aside Rs 3 crore to create an archive of Kannada films, preserving works that capture the state’s cultural, social, and historical heritage.
What Else Did CM Siddaramaiah Announce?
Responding to industry demands, CM Siddaramaiah announced that the cinema sector would be granted industry status, allowing it to access benefits under the Industrial Policy. He also unveiled plans to develop a multiplex complex on 2.5 acres owned by the Karnataka Film Academy in Nandini Layout through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP).
Additionally, Siddaramaiah confirmed that 150 acres-land in Mysuru has been allocated to the Department of Information and Public Relations to set up an international-standard Film City with a Rs 500 crore investment under the PPP model.
