Hyderabad, India – In light of recent reports and rumors, the Telugu Film Producers’ Council (TFPC), along with the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce and the Telangana State Film Chamber of Commerce, is providing an official clarification regarding the closure of several cinema theatres in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Over the past few months, certain cinema theatres in regions such as Guntur and other parts of Andhra Pradesh have shut down. Theatre owners have reported financial struggles, including insufficient revenue and difficulties in meeting the costs imposed by digital service providers like UFO and Qube. These financial pressures have compelled some theatre owners to close their theatres independently.
Several factors have contributed to the decline in cinema attendance and revenue:
- Elections: The recent election period has diverted public attention away from leisure activities like movie-going, leading to a decrease in ticket sales.
- IPL Season: The Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket matches have also attracted large audiences, reducing the number of cinema-goers and affecting box office revenues.
Amid these closures, there have been rumors circulating across social media, digital platforms, and print media suggesting that a coordinated decision by a theatre owners’ association has led to a widespread shutdown of theatres. The TFPC categorically denies these claims. No official notice or directive has been issued by any association for a mass closure of theatres.
These closures are individual decisions made by theatre owners facing specific financial challenges, not a coordinated effort by any group or association within the Telugu film industry.
The Telugu Film Producers’ Council, along with other apex bodies, is committed to the welfare and betterment of the Telugu film industry. We reaffirm that our organizations are not involved in any directives regarding theatre closures. Our focus remains on supporting the industry and addressing the challenges faced by our members and associated entities.
We urge the public and media to avoid spreading unverified information that could cause unnecessary panic and confusion. Our goal is to maintain transparency and support the smooth operation of cinema theatres, ensuring that the Telugu film industry continues to thrive.
K.L. Damodar Prasad, President of the Telugu Film Producers’ Council, along with T. Prasanna Kumar, Hon. Secretary, reiterate their commitment to the industry and call for cooperation and support from all stakeholders during this challenging time.