P. Balakrishna, employee of a private organisation, was surprised to see the empty beverages counter during the intermission of a cinema at a multiplex a couple of days ago. With limited options available at the counter, all he could get is an overflowing tub of tomato-chilli popcorn for ₹ 250 before settling down to watch the rest of the film.
The experience of watching movies in swanky and ritzy world of multiplexes comes at a price even for those who enter the cinema halls with loaded wallets. A small family of three members is sure to shell out ₹ 4,000-₹5,000 for entertainment in a multiplex cinema hall a month.
“Every time, I end up emptying my wallet paying dearly for a range of snacks served at the counters as my wife and daughter cannot do without indulging in munchies and refreshments,” said K. Ganababu, who works in a private hospital. However, what came as a relief to movie-goers is that they can now get refreshments at maximum retail price as Collector Pravin Kumar directed multiplexes not to charge them above the MRP.
The well-stocked racks at the counters now wear a empty look as the multiplexes have stopped selling water bottles, popular beverages and packaged food stuff sourced from select channels. “Products procured from select channels have been returned to the respective dealers and fresh stocks are yet to arrive from the makers,” said a multiplex theatre manager.
Cine-goers heave a sigh of relief as they can now settle for some edible stuff at an affordable price in the multiplexes. Asked whether the drop in price is also applicable to pizzas, samosas and sandwiches available at the counters, a multiplex theatre manager said there was no clarity on rates of such snacks.
According to divisional vice-chairman of National Consumer Rights Commission M. Vyas Goud, the order was issued following constant representations by people who expressed their concern over dual pricing of snacks and beverages at the multiplex theatres.
Assistant Controller of Department of Legal Metrology P. Sudhakar asked consumers to be aware of their rights and report to the authorities if they come across any deviation in rules on MRP.