Dehradun, September 16: The Uttarakhand government has announced that Hanuman Ansh, a film based on the life of revered spiritual figure Baba Neem Karoli, will be made tax-free in the state.
Under the decision, the government will reimburse the State Goods and Services Tax (SGST) charged on tickets sold at cinemas and multiplexes. This will ensure that the SGST burden is not passed on to moviegoers.
Uttarakhand Information Director General and Uttarakhand Film Development Council (UFDC) Chief Executive Officer Banshidhar Tiwari has directed the State Tax Department to take the necessary steps to implement the decision.
Vishal Chaturvedi Directs ‘Hanuman Ansh’
Hanuman Ansh has been written and directed by filmmaker Vishal Chaturvedi. The film, which explores the life of Baba Neem Karoli, has received a positive response from audiences.
The development comes as the film continues to attract attention, including from political leaders. Recently, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav met members of the Hanuman Ansh team.
Akhilesh Yadav Meets Film’s Team
Following his meeting with actor Shobhinaw Satyaa, Akhilesh Yadav shared a photograph on X. In his post, he wrote, “A warm and heartfelt meeting with the creator and artist of Hanuman Ansh.”
Earlier, the film’s team, including director Vishal Chaturvedi and actor Shobhinaw Satyaa, had also met Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow.
Uttarakhand Government Announces SGST Reimbursement
The decision to reimburse SGST on Hanuman Ansh tickets means audiences in Uttarakhand will not bear the state tax component while watching the film in cinemas and multiplexes.
The government’s move comes as the film continues its theatrical run and draws attention for its portrayal of Baba Neem Karoli and his spiritual legacy.