Ramayana has got a big boost two weeks before its release. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has announced that the film will be tax-free in the state.
The announcement came on Vijayadashami, which made the timing even more fitting for a film based on the epic.
What Tax-Free Means
When a film is declared tax-free, the state waives its share of the GST on movie tickets. That brings ticket prices down for audiences in the state.
Cheaper tickets usually mean more footfalls, especially among families. For a big film like Ramayana, that can make a real difference to its collections in West Bengal.
A Big Win for the Makers
For the makers, this is a strong early win. Tax-free status in a large state like West Bengal helps the film reach more viewers, and it also adds to the positive buzz ahead of release.
More States Likely to Join
West Bengal may not be the only state to do this. Films with mythological or cultural themes have often been declared tax-free in several states. Recent examples include Chhaava, which got tax-free status in states like Madhya Pradesh and Goa.
With Ramayana being one of the most anticipated Indian films ever, more states are expected to announce similar exemptions in the coming days.
All About Ramayana
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Yash as Ravana and Sai Pallavi as Sita. The film is produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios with DNEG and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, and the music is by Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman.
The film will hold its world premiere at the Academy Museum in Los Angeles on October 27, and it releases worldwide on November 5 in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam.
