Archive · 23 Sep 2026
Mumbai Theatre Tax Hike Awaits State Approval; Rates Remain Unchanged
Mumbai wants to change the tax that cinemas and other entertainment venues pay for each show.
The new plan cannot start until the state government approves it.
Until then, venues will keep paying the old rates.
Under the plan, multiplexes would pay ₹400 per show instead of ₹60.
Single-screen AC cinemas would pay ₹200, while non-AC cinemas would pay ₹90.
Dramas and similar programmes would pay ₹100.
Some Marathi and Gujarati entertainment would still be exempt.
Venues that pay their monthly tax early could continue receiving a 6% discount.
Mumbai cinema halls will keep paying current theatre tax rates until the proposed hike is approved and notified.
The proposal would raise the multiplex tax from ₹60 to ₹400 per show.
Proposed rates include ₹200 for single-screen AC cinemas, ₹90 for non-AC cinemas and ₹100 for dramas and other programmes.
Marathi and Gujarati films, plays, one-act plays and tamashas would remain exempt.
The BMC has proposed continuing a 6% concession for monthly tax payments made by the fifth of the month.
- Who
- The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, with approval required from the state Urban Development Department, is involved in the proposal.
- What
- A proposed increase in theatre taxes is on hold, while existing rates remain in effect.
- When
- The proposal was discussed on September 22, 2026, and the report is dated September 23, 2026; proposed rates concern 2027-28.
- Where
- Mumbai.
- Why
- The revised rates require approval from the Urban Development Department and subsequent civic approvals before taking effect.
- Current AC cinema tax
- ₹60 per show
- Current non-AC cinema tax
- ₹45 per show
- Proposed multiplex tax
- ₹400 per show
- Proposed single-screen AC tax
- ₹200 per show
- Proposed non-AC tax
- ₹90 per show
- Advance-payment concession
- 6% for monthly payments made by the fifth of the month
- Exempt entertainment
- Marathi and Gujarati films, plays, one-act plays and tamashas