The ongoing controversy between producers and exhibitors in the Telugu film industry has reached the Andhra Pradesh government, with Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan getting involved. Pawan Kalyan held a meeting with the Cinematography Minister and officials to discuss issues such as food prices in theaters, theater closures, cleanliness, and ticket prices. Pawan Kalyan's involvement in the issue has sparked varied reactions on social media, with some supporting his stance and others criticizing it.
In latest press note, Pawan Kalyan has called for a committee to examine theater food and beverage rates, citing that prices are sky-high and making it difficult for families to visit theaters. He has also requested an investigation into crowd management issues, ticket pricing, and fairness. The Deputy CM's office has announced that the committee will look into these issues and provide recommendations. He also called to take action even if Janasena party member involved in the issue.
The Janasena Party has suspended a member, Atthi Satyanarayana, for his suspected role in the theater strike controversy. The party asked him to clear his name and until then asked him to stay away from party activities. The controversy has also affected Pawan Kalyan's upcoming film, Hari Hara Veera Mallu, which is set to release on June 12. Producer Dil Raju has released a letter thanking Pawan Kalyan for his suggestions on making cinema more accessible to the audience. Dil Raju has agreed with Pawan Kalyan's ideas on reducing food and beverage prices in theaters and tackling piracy.
The Telugu film industry is looking forward to working with the government to address these issues and bring audiences back to theaters. The Producers Council will consult with the Telangana government on the issues suggested by the Andhra Pradesh government, and together, they will contribute to the development of Telugu cinema.