Don't increase theatre rental charges, Shiv Sena leader tells Mumbai civic body

The Kalidas Natyamandir in Mulund. FILE PIC

Protesting against a recent increase in rental charges for the use of theatres run by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), where Marathi plays are staged and cultural programmes are held, Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) has demanded that the civic body reverse its move.

Voicing concerns of producers and organisers, Amey Ghole, Sena group leader in the civic body, wrote a letter to Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide in this regard. The BMC increases the rent by 10 per cent annually. On April 1, 2026, the rent payable by those organising shows was increased by Rs 3000 to Rs 4000.

The issue was also raised by the Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Natya Parishad (All India Marathi Theatres Council), which pointed out that this could lead to venues passing on the cost to customers, proving a threat to the survival of regional performance art and theatre.

Expert Speak

Raju Patodkar, Actor and writer
‘Already, there is hardly any audience for Marathi plays. The target audience may or may not be able to afford expensive tickets. Even Rs 500 for a ticket is considered a huge amount. However, organisers have to bear different kinds of expenses, such as air-conditioning costs, to compete with other cinema houses. Rent varies depending on prime time show bookings, seating capacity, and whether or not it's the weekend. Unlike earlier times, when shows would run for 25 weeks at a stretch, demand is low. Now, pulling off 25 shows is considered a huge success. In such times, it is necessary to ease the financial burden on organisers'

Voice of concern

Amey Ghole, Shiv Sena leader
‘It is crucial for the survival of Marathi theatre and performance art that rent should be rationalised. I have voiced the concerns of various organisers and written to the administration'

Popular theatres

>> Ravindra Natya Mandir in Prabhadevi
>> Shri Shivaji Mandir in Dadar
>> Yashwant Natya Mandir in Matunga West
>> Vishnudas Bhave Natyagruha in Vashi

Rs 150 to Rs 500
General price range of a Marathi play ticket