‘Coolie': Rajinikanth starrer sparks frenzy in Tamil Nadu, faces tax hurdles in Puducherry

Time of India

2 days ago

Superstar Rajinikanth's 'Coolie' is enjoying massive buzz even before its release. The Tamil Nadu government has granted special permission for the film, which will hit theatres on August 14.
According to The Hindu, cinemas in the state will be allowed to screen up to five shows a day, from 9 am to 2 am the following morning.
Lokesh Kanagaraj
and Rajinikanth's first collaboration has generated sky-high expectations among fans. Advance bookings are in full swing worldwide, with tickets selling out rapidly. In Tamil Nadu, the first screening will begin at 9 am, while in Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, shows will start as early as 6 am.
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Puducherry theatres struggle under heavy taxation
In Puducherry, however, the release has hit a roadblock due to high entertainment taxes. While Tamil Nadu has reduced entertainment tax on Tamil films to 4%, Puducherry imposes double taxation — GST plus local entertainment tax. Tickets priced below ₹100 attract 12% GST, while those above Rs.100 incur 18% GST, both topped with a 25% local entertainment tax. This brings the total tax burden to nearly 45%, meaning almost half of the ticket revenue goes to the government.
This heavy tax structure has left Puducherry theatres operating at a loss compared to neighbouring Tamil Nadu.
Limited release despite strong demand
The Puducherry Cinema Owners Association met Chief Minister N. Rangasamy, requesting a reduction in entertainment tax. They pointed out that although the state has over 20 theatres, distributors hesitate to release big films under the current tax regime. The government, however, refused to lower the tax, citing ₹5 crore in annual revenue from it.
After two unsuccessful rounds of talks, the number of 'Coolie' screenings in Puducherry was cut down. As a result, on August 14, the film will release in just 15 theatres across the state.
A film to celebrate Rajinikanth's 50 years in cinema
Coolie stars Sathyaraj, Nagarjuna, Soubin Shahir, Upendra, Shruti Haasan, and others, with music by Anirudh Ravichander. Its recent audio launch event in Chennai went viral, further fueling anticipation. The film also marks the celebration of Rajinikanth's 50th year in cinema.