The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced a 5 per cent annual increase in theatre and auditorium rental fees. The revised rates came into effect on April 1. The civic body has also stated that this increase will continue every year going forward.
The hike is expected to raise costs by around 4,000 per year in typical cases. However, the final amount will differ depending on the size of the venue and its seating capacity. A report by Hindustan Times noted that the variation in rent will be based on these factors. The report also stated that the 5% rise will be applied every year in the future.
The decision has faced opposition from the Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde. Party leader Amey Ghole has written to the municipal commissioner asking for the decision to be reconsidered.
In his letter, Ghole said he was informed that theatre rents had been increased from April 1. He added that the Marathi Theatre Council, several theatre producers, artists, and cultural organisations have opposed the hike.
Ghole further requested that the rent hike be put on hold immediately. He warned that the increase could create financial pressure on Marathi theatre, particularly new artists and small theatre groups.
As per FPJ, Deputy Municipal Commissioner Ajit Kumar Ambi defended the decision. He also said that no increase was made during the pandemic period and inflation is the main reason for introducing the current hike. The report says that the civic body had earlier planned a 10% increase. However, after review, the hike was limited to 5%.
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