New Delhi, Sept. 19 -- A trip to a multiplex in Karnataka is going to get costlier than before. Apart from paying for the film and overall experience, including premium formats such as IMAX and Dolby Cinema, plush seating and a wider range of food and beverage options, there's now an additional 2% cess. Ahead of the new levy rollout on September 30, we assess its cascading impact on consumer ticketing expenditures and the operational viability of theatre operators.

On Thursday, the Multiplex Association of India (MAI) raised concerns, predicting that the proposed 2% cess could inflate ticket prices, therefore affecting consumer demand and impacting overall film business. Talking to Live Mint, Kamal Gianchandani, President of MAI, explain...