Madhuri Dixit on Rising Ticket Prices Slowing Theatre Footfalls

December 28, 2025

Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit has shared her insights on how rising cinema ticket prices are impacting theatre footfalls in India, pointing to economic barriers that are affecting audience behaviour.

In an interview with IANS, the Dil To Pagal Hai star highlighted that while quality films continue to draw audiences, higher ticket costs are making movie‑going more selective, especially for families.

Cost Factor Making Families Think Twice

Madhuri explained that with cinema tickets now significantly more expensive, many families have to budget carefully before deciding which films to watch in theatres. She said that even when a good film is playing, the cumulative expense of tickets for multiple family members can be a deterrent.

The actress also pointed out that the convenience of OTT platforms, where movies can be viewed at home, adds another layer of competition for theatre attendance. With easy access to content online, viewers are more likely to wait to watch films from the comfort of home, especially after a long workday.

Weekend Visits Become Central

According to Madhuri, many cinema‑goers now reserve theatre visits for weekends, as weekday outings are less practical for working audiences. She noted that by the time people return home in the evening, it often becomes too late to visit a cinema hall, limiting theatre visits to weekend schedules.

Broader Industry Trends Impacting Footfalls

Industry experts have been raising similar concerns, with rising ticket prices often cited as a factor behind declining footfalls at cinema halls. Higher costs for food and beverages inside multiplexes are also contributing to the overall expense of movie outings, making theatre visits feel like a luxury rather than a casual entertainment option.

There are also broader trends at play, including the growth of OTT platforms and changing content preferences, which have reshaped audience behaviour in recent years.