Bollywood Hungama has been at the forefront of reporting the ongoing tussle between major national cinema chains—namely PVR, Inox, and Cinepolis—and film producers over the payment of the Virtual Print Fee (VPF).
Last month, the industry faced a significant jolt when PVR and Inox suspended the advance booking of the highly anticipated film *Jolly LLB 3*, starring Akshay Kumar and Arshad Warsi. The suspension came after its producers, Star Studio18, refused to pay the VPF. The advance bookings were halted twice, including once just 12 hours before the commencement of the first show.
According to reports, Star Studio18 eventually paid the VPF but made it clear that this payment was made under protest. They also stated their intention to continue discussions regarding the issue.
More than a month later, the VPF controversy has flared up again, this time involving the film *Single Salma*.
**Exclusive:** After the *Jolly LLB 3* dispute, Star Studio18 and PVR Inox are now at odds over the VPF for Huma Qureshi’s upcoming film *Single Salma*.
A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “*Single Salma* is also produced by Star Studio18, and the studio once again requested a VPF waiver from PVR, Inox, and Cinepolis. However, the request was not granted. Discussions are ongoing. If a resolution is not reached, *Single Salma* may only release in non-national theatres across the country.”
Trade sources estimate that *Single Salma* is expected to release on around 200 screens nationwide. The film features Huma Qureshi in the lead role; interestingly, she also starred in *Jolly LLB 3*. The cast also includes Shreyas Talpade and Sunny Singh.
Star Studio18 felt justified in requesting the waiver since *Jolly LLB 3* is a 2025 release. However, PVR and Inox argued that the agreement stipulates the studio will cease paying VPF only if other production houses do the same.
In a significant development, on September 30, 2025, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) ordered an investigation into PVR INOX Limited based on allegations of abusing its dominant market position by continuing to levy VPF on film producers.
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**Also Read:** [Huma Qureshi and Rachit Singh fuel engagement buzz with public appearances]
**More Pages:**
– Single Salma Box Office Collection
– Bollywood News Live Updates
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