The much-awaited Tamil film Vikram Vedha starring R Madhavan and Vijay Sethupathi was set to hit the cinemas today. However, the makers have been forced to postpone the film indefinitely owing to the increased entertainment tax. Apart from the compulsory Goods and Service tax (GST) introduced on July 1st, the Tamil Nadu government has also levied a 30% entertainment tax, taking the tax amount to an enormous 58%.
In reaction to this at least a 1000 theaters have gone on strike to show their protest against the double taxation move. This has resulted in postponing the release of Vikram Vedha indefinitely.
S Sashikanth of Y NOT Studios, the production house bankrolling Vikram Vedha, criticized the TN government for "plundering" the industry. In a letter, he urged the Kollywood industry to raise their voice against the "systemic plunder" by the government.
Here is a quote from the statement: “I am not sure when was the last time cinema theatres in Tamil nadu were shut down but I am sure these are unprecedented situations prevailing. When other state governments across India have recoganised the idea of GST and reformed their local taxation system, why has the Tamil government alone not taken these reform measures yet”.
Even superstar Rajinikanth requested the government to reverse its decision. “Keeping in mind the livelihood of Lakhs of people in the tamil film industry, I sincerely request the TN GOVT to seriously consider our plea”, he tweeted.
Vikram Vedha is inspired by the folk tale of Vikramaditya. The main characters are touted to be derived from the tale. The film is written and directed by Pushkar and Gayathri and produced by Sashikanth. The cast also includes Varalakshmi, Shraddha Srinath and Kathir playing supporting roles. The music is scored by Sam C.S.
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