POP CORN OR DAL CHAWAL AT THE SHOW?

The buzz is that cinemas in Maharashtra have to let viewers bring their own snacks for a show. We ask what this might mean for the trade and if states like Delhi should follow suit

What’s a moviewatching experience on the big screen if it’s not clubbed with a tub of pop corn, a glass of cola, and fries on the side? But for a family of four, already paying ₹200 or so per ticket, the exorbitantly priced cinema hall snacks are often a luxury. What’s worse, most theatres don’t allow food to be brought in from outside. In this scenario, the proposal that cinemas in Maharashtra may have to let viewers bring their own food is a relief. And snack prices may come down, too.

“The Central government is coming up with a legislation on August 1 that will ensure food cannot be sold at different prices at different places,” said minister of state for food and civil supplies, Ravindra Chavan, responding to the issue raised by Leader of Opposition Dhananjay Munde.

When contacted, cinema chains PVR and INOX replied with an official statement from the Multiplex Association of India, which says “...None of the multiplex cinema theatres operated by any of our members have received any order, notification or communication to this effect from the Government of Maharashtra…”

Deepak Asher, president of MAI, said, “Since the matter is currently sub judice, and since we have no other formal communication from any regulatory authority, we’d not like to comment any further.”

Mumbai people are happy about the proposed cut in cinema hall snack prices, but are cautious about outside food being allowed. Sachita Sethi, a counselling psychologist in Mumbai, says, “Ek movie dekhne mein hi we have to spend ₹2,000 with the family. The food is also not filling, just basic. Popcorn and cola comes to ₹200-300. But allowing outside food completely is also not correct. People will make theatres a picnic spot!”

There’s speculation if such a move would be implemented in Delhi and other states. Karuna Kumar, a 21-year-old Delhi student, hopes so. “Theatres at times refuse [to allow] even chocolates! We youngsters get limited pocket money, and we have to eat something while catching a film.”

Film trade expert Atul Mohan says, “Years ago, people didn’t think of carrying food for a show. For them, ‘theatre mein popcorn khayenge’ was more exciting. But rising ticket costs are encouraging piracy. Theatres will have to control prices for their own survival.”

NOTE TO READERS: Some of the coverage that appears on our pages is paid for by the concerned brands. No sponsored content does or shall appear in any part of HT without it being declared as such to our valued readers.