Official Statement on Cinema Theatre Closures in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
Date: May 16, 2024
Hyderabad, India – The Telugu Film Producers’ Council (TFPC), alongside the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce and the Telangana State Film Chamber of Commerce, has issued an official statement to address recent reports and rumors about the closure of several cinema theatres in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Current Situation
In recent months, certain cinema theatres in regions such as Guntur and other parts of Andhra Pradesh have closed down. Theatre owners have cited financial difficulties, including insufficient revenue and the inability to pay digital service providers like UFO and Qube. These financial challenges have forced some theatre owners to independently shut their theatres.
Contributing Factors
Several factors have contributed to the decrease in cinema attendance and revenue:
- Elections: The election period has diverted public attention away from leisure activities, including movie-going, resulting in lower ticket sales.
- IPL Season: The Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket matches have also drawn large audiences away from cinemas, further impacting revenues for theatre owners.
Clarification on Rumors
Rumors have been circulating across social media, digital platforms, and print media, suggesting that a coordinated decision by a theatre owners’ association has led to a widespread closure of theatres. The TFPC has categorically denied these claims, stating that no official notice or directive has been issued by any association for a mass theatre closure.
The closures are individual decisions made by theatre owners facing specific financial issues, rather than a collective action by any group or association within the Telugu film industry.
Official Stance
The Telugu Film Producers’ Council, along with other apex bodies, remains committed to the welfare and betterment of the Telugu film industry. These organizations reaffirm that they are not involved in any directives regarding theatre closures. Their primary focus is on supporting the industry and addressing the challenges faced by its members.
The TFPC urges the public and media to refrain from spreading unverified information that can cause unnecessary panic and confusion. The council emphasizes its goal of maintaining transparency and supporting the smooth operation of cinema theatres to ensure the continued growth and success of the Telugu film industry.
