India, July 19 -- L ately, less footfall in theatres has been a cause of concern for filmmakers and exhibitors alike. While many cite the surge of OTT and changing tastes of viewers, some argue that the high ticket prices are keeping audiences away from cinema halls. And actor Pankaj Tripathi agrees, saying, "Ticket pricing ek mudda hai aur uski bhi ek bhumika hai [in poor collections]. If a family has to go to the theatre today, it's a very costly affair. Ticket prices and the food served there are so expensive." The 48-year-old adds, "I don't know much about the commercial aspect of cinema, so the business game is beyond my understanding. And as an actor, my focus is just on the film. But I do feel that movie tickets are too costly and that's surely a deterrent." Of late, many actors and filmmakers have also criticised the exorbitant ticket prices, with Aamir Khan saying, "it's difficult for masses to go to theatres". To encourage better footfall, the Karnataka government recently reinstated a cap of Rs.200 on movie ticket prices at theatres and multiplexes, for all films, regardless of language. Pankaj goes on to explain why ticket costs are to be blamed: "On Tuesdays or on National Cinema Day, when the prices are lowered, the occupancy in cinema halls goes up. So, if we have fairly priced tickets, the footfall will surely increase. For a family to spend Rs.2,000 and spare five hours (including travel time) is not an easy thing."...