Kochi: The Kerala Government is all set to launch a mobile app named ‘EnteShow’ and a website for cine-goers to book movie tickets. 

On an experimental basis, movie tickets will soon be available via the app in 16 theatres under Kerala State Film Development Corporation (KSFDC). By January, the government intends to have all theatres in the state accessible via the app for ticket booking. 

‘Ente Show’ is pretty much similar to the other movie ticket booking apps and websites. When using the app, moviegoers will only have to pay an additional fee of Rs 1.5 per ticket.

The main advantage is that the app will provide the government, film producers, and theatre owners with a precise picture of how many tickets are being sold. Allegations that certain booking apps are receiving money in exchange for unfairly promoting certain movies have compelled the government to come up with an alternative. 

Meanwhile, the private booking apps are levying an additional charge of up to Rs 25/ticket on customers. With the introduction of a government-owned app, the authorities can ensure steady inflows into the film welfare funds and entertainment taxes as well. Aside from the 18% GST and the 8% entertainment tax imposed on every cinema ticket, Rs 3 in cess is collected for the welfare fund. However, theatres often default in paying the above-mentioned sum.