Andhra Pradesh: The long-debated issue of cinema ticket pricing in Andhra Pradesh has resurfaced, this time after actor Balakrishna’s satirical comments. Responding to the controversy, Megastar Chiranjeevi issued a statement clarifying the facts surrounding his meetings with the then Andhra Pradesh government led by Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy.
In his statement, Chiranjeevi recalled that during Jagan’s tenure as Chief Minister, several leading figures from the Telugu film industry had approached him to take the initiative in addressing rising production costs and to request a hike in cinema ticket prices. Among those who met him were S. S. Rajamouli, Koratala Siva, Trivikram Srinivas, Mahesh Babu, Jr. NTR, producer D. V. V. Danayya, representatives from Mythri Movie Makers, and others.
Following their request, Chiranjeevi said he spoke to the then Cinematography Minister Perni Nani. Later, he was personally invited by Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy for a lunch meeting at his residence.
“During the lunch, I explained the challenges faced by the film industry. I also told him that there seemed to be a communication gap between the government and the industry, and assured that we were ready to bridge it,” Chiranjeevi said.
Due to the second wave of COVID-19, the government restricted the number of attendees for the follow-up meeting. Chiranjeevi mentioned that he had tried reaching out to Balakrishna but could not get through despite multiple attempts, even through industry mediator Gemini Kiran. Eventually, he arranged for a delegation, including filmmaker R. Narayana Murthy, to meet the Chief Minister.
Chiranjeevi emphasized that it was this effort that led to the government’s decision to allow an increase in cinema ticket prices.
“This decision benefitted films like Veera Simha Reddy and Waltair Veerayya. Producers, distributors, and exhibitors all gained from it,” he pointed out.
Concluding his statement, Chiranjeevi added: “Whether it is with the Chief Minister or with a common man, I always maintain the same natural and respectful approach in my interactions. Since I am currently not in India, I am issuing this clarification through a press release to ensure everyone knows the truth.”