Jailer 2 is neither a straight Telugu film nor a project that has reportedly overshot its budget to an extent that would require special consideration from the Andhra Pradesh government.
As the sequel to a blockbuster, the film is also expected to earn substantial revenue through non-theatrical rights.
So, why should Andhra Pradesh allow a ticket price hike for a film that is not even a direct Telugu production?
The Andhra Pradesh government has already issued a new G.O. permitting an increase in ticket prices for seven days.
Single-screen theatres can charge an additional Rs 50 per ticket, while multiplexes have been allowed to increase prices by Rs 75.
The decision has triggered questions on social media over the rationale behind the hike, especially when the makers have not aggressively promoted the film in Telugu.
A political angle is also being discussed. Rajinikanth shares a cordial relationship with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and has publicly praised him on several occasions. The superstar has also extended support to the Telugu Desam Party in the past.
While the government’s decision has come under scrutiny, the larger question remains: what exactly justifies a special ticket price hike for Jailer 2 in Andhra Pradesh?