Six years on, free water at cinema halls remains a consumer right many Indians are still unaware of or don't receive.

A Fight We All Needed

Sometimes not being aware of a few basic rules, that apply to us as consumers, is a big loss. Both monetarily and mentally. We are clueless as to what we actually deserve when we are out in the public. But, we must thank a few individuals for the awareness they bring in our lives. Bharath Guniganti, a normal citizen like any of us. Being a regular movie-goer, he happened to notice that the multiplex he frequently visits, BVK Multiplex at LB Nagar crossroads doesn’t provide drinking water for free.

Being an attentive consumer, he turned up the rule book and to his surprise, it gave him the exact insight he was looking for. The license code for theatre as per AP Cinemas Regulations 1970, says that every theatre must provide free drinking water to its patrons. If they don’t, they can be fined up to Rs. 10,000. If the fine is not paid, an additional fine of Rs. 200 per day is charged.

He systematically approached the Rachakonda Commissionerate through WhatsApp and lodged a complaint. The police immediately referred to the rule book and directed the Multiplex to make arrangements for free drinking water. And failing to do so, they would receive an official notice. Bharath was successful in arranging free drinking water at Miraj Cinemas, Dilshuknagar, as well.

‘This is just the beginning’, says Bharath who looked up the entire rulebook through a public portal website called Factly. Free water is a basic amenity to be provided, but instead, patrons have to shell out money in order to purchase water. Additionally, water bottles from outside are denied. The cinemas who provide free water can be counted on the fingers.

Earlier, in 2016 as well, the government instructed cinemas to make arrangements for the same, but it was gone in the wind. Hope this time more people are aware, and take steps to make sure that such places function properly, for the good of all.

So, all you movie buffs out there, next time you go for a movie, feel free to check for drinking water inside the theatre. If you don’t find any, contact the management.

AND NO! Don’t get any ideas of carrying anything in the name of water and take it inside the hall. You will be screwed!!

Kudos, Bharath! Great job!!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is free water mandatory at cinema halls in India?

Yes, under AP Cinemas Regulations 1970, every cinema hall must provide free drinking water to patrons. This applies across Andhra Pradesh and is a consumer right that many people are unaware of. Failing to provide it can result in fines up to Rs. 10,000.

What should I do if a multiplex doesn’t provide free water?

You can lodge a formal complaint with your local police commissionerate or civil administration authority. Reference the cinema regulations in your complaint and provide specific details about the multiplex. Following Bharat’s approach, document your complaint in writing for official action.

How much fine can cinema halls face for not providing free water?

Cinema halls can face a fine of up to Rs. 10,000 for non-compliance. If the fine is not paid, an additional penalty of Rs. 200 per day is charged until the violation is corrected and free water provision is ensured.

What other consumer rights do I have at cinema halls?

Cinema halls must follow licensing regulations that include provisions for basic amenities and patron safety. You can access the complete rule book through public portals like Factly. Knowing these regulations helps you advocate for your rights as a consumer.

Can I report cinema hall violations online?

Yes, you can lodge complaints via WhatsApp with local police commissionerates or through official government channels. Digital complaints create an official record and often prompt faster action from authorities to ensure compliance.