Fatima Sana Shaikh has voiced concern over Mumbai’s proposed revision of entertainment tax rates, questioning whether audiences would still be able to afford regular trips to the cinema if the proposal comes into effect.
Speaking at an event, the actor was asked about the BMC’s proposal to significantly increase entertainment tax on air-conditioned cinema halls and multiplexes. Under the proposed structure, the tax on AC cinemas and multiplexes would rise from Rs 60 to Rs 400 per ticket, representing a roughly 570 per cent increase. The proposal is yet to receive the required approval and notification, meaning the existing rates continue to apply for now.
The actor further noted that movie tickets themselves can cost several hundred rupees, making the overall expense of a theatre visit considerably higher once food and other costs are added. According to Fatima, any further increase could make the theatrical experience less accessible to sections of the audience.
She also raised concerns about the changing cinema landscape and the decline of single-screen theatres. “It is also very classist I must say because single screens are over, so you have already alienated your audience,” Fatima said.
The proposed changes extend beyond air-conditioned multiplexes. Entertainment tax on non-AC cinema halls is proposed to increase from Rs 45 to Rs 200 per ticket, while tax on performing arts events such as plays and concerts could rise from Rs 50 to Rs 100.
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