Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan seems visibly upset with theatres across the state.
He strongly believes that theatre owners have conspired to announce a shutdown as a plot against his upcoming film.
Convinced that his film is being targeted, Pawan is reportedly taking the issue very seriously and has issued repeated public statements — essentially giving directives.
He has particularly focused on two key areas: sanitation and canteen pricing. These issues are mainly tied to single-screen theatres.
Unlike multiplexes, many single-screen theatres fail to maintain proper hygiene, especially in washrooms, which often emit foul odors.
If officials take these concerns seriously, no theatre would be able to run for even a day — closures could be enforced on the grounds of poor sanitation alone.
Then there are the canteens — a crucial revenue source for theatres. Cool drinks, water bottles, and popcorn are sold at inflated prices.
In comparison to multiplexes, which charge exorbitant rates in the hundreds, single-screen theatres charge relatively low prices — ₹25 to ₹30.
However, even these have drawn Pawan's ire. With his remarks, officials from the weights and measures department may soon step in. If that happens, it could become extremely difficult for theatres to continue operations.
Many theatre operators, already struggling, may slowly exit the business.
Only a few key theatres may survive, while others could be shut down or repurposed as function halls or marriage venues.
