Deputy Chief Minister and Janasena chief Pawan Kalyan’s recent intervention into the Telugu film industry’s operations—especially regarding theatre regulations and ticket pricing—has ignited a political and public debate. His current stance, sharply contrasting with his past criticism of similar moves by the previous YSRCP government, is being labelled by critics as a clear case of double standards.
From Opponent to Enforcer:
During the YSRCP regime, when Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy introduced measures to regulate ticket prices and control theatre operations—citing the survival of small films—Pawan Kalyan vocally opposed them. At the time, he asserted that governments should not interfere in cinema, calling such moves a threat to the creative and commercial freedom of the industry. In fact, he even mocked these policies on public platforms, with Janasena leaders declaring cinema and politics should not be mixed.
However, now as Deputy CM in the NDA-led coalition government, Pawan appears to have taken a U-turn. He recently ordered an inquiry into ticket pricing, food and beverage rates at theatres, and even initiated a probe into the alleged theatre shutdown decision by some exhibitors. This has raised eyebrows, particularly because he is not the Cinematography Minister—yet he chaired meetings and issued directives to that department’s minister, Kandula Durgesh.
Overstepping Authority?
Political analysts and administrative experts have questioned the legitimacy of Pawan Kalyan issuing orders to another minister from his own cabinet, even if both are from Janasena. The fact that Home and Revenue officials were not present during the meeting further fueled suspicions of unilateral decision-making.
The ‘Hari Hara Veera Mallu’ Factor:
The timing of these orders is also being questioned. With Pawan’s own film Hari Hara Veera Mallu expected to release soon, reports of a possible theatre shutdown from June 1 were met with swift action. He directed the Home Department to probe the matter, alleging cartelization behind the move.
Simultaneously, his office issued a clarification that any hike in ticket prices must go through the Film Chamber—not individual producers—and that this rule applies even to his own films. While this may be seen as an attempt to maintain neutrality, critics argue the motivation behind such sudden enforcement is self-serving.
Janasena Leader Suspended Amid Backlash:
The controversy intensified after senior producer Dil Raju accused Janasena leader Atti Satyanarayana of orchestrating the theatre shutdown. In damage control mode, the Janasena party suspended Satyanarayana, issuing a hasty press release. This move, though intended to ease tensions, further exposed internal contradictions and raised concerns about political interference in cinema.
Cinema and Politics: A Blurred Line:
Industry insiders are questioning Pawan’s consistency and intentions. “Earlier he accused the government of politicizing cinema. Now, as Deputy CM, he is doing the same. What changed?” asked a leading producer. Others pointed out the irony of his past statements about government non-interference, now juxtaposed with regulatory overdrive.
