Suhail Nayyar Weighs In on BMC's Proposed 570% Entertainment Tax Hike

Nayyar, who is currently promoting his upcoming film *Udta Teer*, spoke in Andheri West about the proposed changes and their potential impact on moviegoers.

"I think movie tickets are going to be more expensive. Popcorn is anyway expensive, it's more expensive than the movie ticket," Nayyar said.

However, the actor pointed out that the proposal has not yet been implemented and could still be altered or rejected.

"I guess the tickets will be more costly. But, you never know, things change. They have just proposed it, they might not go ahead with it. Let's see what happens then we'll talk about it," he added.

The BMC has proposed a 570 per cent increase in entertainment tax applicable to cinema halls and performing-arts venues in Mumbai. The proposal is currently awaiting consideration by the Maharashtra government's Urban Development Department.

Under the proposed rates, entertainment tax on multiplexes could increase from Rs 60 to Rs 400 per show. Single-screen air-conditioned cinemas could face a tax of Rs 200 per show, while drama performances, jalsa programmes and other entertainment events could attract a levy of Rs 100 per show.

The proposed revision forms part of the civic body's efforts to increase its revenue from entertainment-related activities. The BMC has indicated that the revised structure could generate approximately Rs 400-500 crore annually.

The proposal also includes exemptions for Marathi and Gujarati films, plays and one-act plays.

For now, the existing entertainment tax rates remain applicable. The proposed rates will come into effect only if they receive approval from the state government and are formally notified.

Nayyar is currently gearing up for the release of *Udta Teer*, while also working on other projects.