'Jana Nayagan' fever peaks: Vijay’s farewell frenzy drives for high ticket prices in Kerala and Karnataka, film aims at record opening

Even before a single public show has rolled out, 'Jana Nayagan' has sparked intense debate across the trade for one striking reason: its sky-high ticket prices. The farewell factor surrounding Vijay’s final film has clearly reshaped audience behaviour and exhibitor strategy alike, with ticket rates for select shows soaring to unprecedented levels. Slated for a January 9 Pongal release, the H Vinoth directorial has turned advance booking windows wherever they are open into a litmus test of just how far fans are willing to go for what is being billed as the star’s cinematic goodbye.

CBFC clearance delay keeps Tamil Nadu bookings on hold

In Tamil Nadu, however, the frenzy is still in the wings. The film is being held back on ticket sales in anticipation of a go-ahead from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Industry insiders report that certain changes have been suggested which has made the exhibitors on standby to avoid last-minute changes. Advance sales, for now, are restricted to Karnataka, Kerala and international distribution making these markets the pulse for the film’s reception. As of now, according to industry tracker Sacnilk, there is a careful approach being taken to release the film in cinemas in domestic markets amid the growing online demand.

Bengaluru leads the surge

Karnataka, especially Bengaluru, has become ground zero for the pricing deluge. This, despite morning shows with inflated prices reserved only for big international films, sold out in a matter of minutes, as per Cinema Express. At Mukunda Theatre, the 6:30 am show on opening day was priced at Rs 1,800 and Rs 2,000 and sold out within minutes. Several other theatres like Swagath Shankar Nag, Sri Vinayaka, Cinephile HSR Layout, Gopalan Grand Mall and Brundha RGB, among others, reported full houses with the morning shows being priced at Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,500. Even the lowest slabs were priced around Rs 800 in some locations.

Jana Nayagan’s gets an extraordinary pre-sale

The disparity is more glaring when it is discussed region-wise. In Kochi, the highest fare available is ₹350, which shows the contrast in price between the states. However, places like Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi are yet to open and can expect some hike in fare once tickets are available. 'Jana Nayagan' featuring Mamitha Baiju, Pooja Hegde, and Bobby Deol with Vijay is more than Pongal's movie, it has been marketed as a lifelong experience in its value, and the price tells the story.

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