Mission Mangal has been declared tax-free in Maharashtra. With ticket prices coming down, more people, especially from the rural areas will feel encouraged to watch the film, which chronicles the story of India's Mangalyaan or the Mars Orbiter Mission. Earlier, Akshay Kumar had said during the film's promotion: "I've made this film mainly for children so that they feel encouraged to become scientists. Scientist as a profession is not very likeable, but now after ISRO's launch of the Chandrayaan, people are gradually becoming more aware of it and taking interest in it. I hope this film helps to spread the fact that what a great profession it is." Amul’s New Topical on Akshay Kumar’s Mission Mangal Has a Mass Appeal, Err, ‘Mars Appeal’ (See Pic)

With the film being declared tax-free, it is expected that more children will get to watch it and learn about the Mangalyaan, which has carved India's name in golden letters in the history of space research. Directed by Jagan Shakti, Mission Mangal stars Akshay Kumar, Vidya Balan, Sonakshi Sinha, Kirti Kulhari, Taapsee Pannu, Nithya Menen and H.G. Dattatreya in key roles. The film, which hit theatres on August 15, has already collected over Rs 165 crore at the box office. Mission Mangal Box Office Collection Day 13: Akshay Kumar’s Film Continues to Rake in Moolah at the Ticket Windows, Will Comfortably Cross the Rs 175 Crore Mark

Earlier, Akshay Kumar's PadMan and Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, both films delivering a strong social message were declared tax-free in a few states. Mission Mangal now joins the list of the superstar's tax-free movies.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 29, 2019 11:39 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).