The film fraternity is slowly and gradually being attracted towards the scenic beauty of the State. Renowned film producers and directors of B’town are heading towards various locations of the State to shoot for their upcoming projects.
As the State has become a regular visiting point for Bollywood industry, Madhya Pradesh State Tourism and Development Corporation (MPSTDC) has decided to promote film tourism.
While talking to The Pioneer, Managing Director of MPSTDC Raghavendra Kumar Singh said, “It is something really prestigious for the State that the film fraternity is visiting our State over and over again. This is a really good opportunity for the State to increase tourism.
The Bollywood producers and directors find this State more desirable as compared to other places not only because of its scenic beauty but also people here are very hospitable.”
Notably, Prakash Jha has already shot for four movies in the State Capital and his two more projects are in the pipeline. In the Global investors meet 2014 Prakash Jha announced that he will direct his four more movies in Madhya Pradesh. Moreover, Ashutosh Gowarikar will head towards Jabalpur in future to make a movie based on the rich flora and fauna of the State. Moreover, recently, John Abraham Productions has completed its production in Bhopal.
There are many more projects that will be set up in various locations of the State and as cooperation MPSTDC will promote film tourism. Singh said that producers face a lot of difficulties at local level in getting approvals and coordinating with various departments for their permission and clearances for shooting the films. Henceforth, the Department of Tourism will coordinate with various departments for their official permission and clearances. This facility will be provided on best effort basis to related producer or the production company. In this regard the Department of Tourism is authorized to take necessary action which will be given by the General Administrative Department.
He further said that not only the film producers but also the television people are regularly visiting sites like Bhojpur, Bhimbetaka and other locations for shoot. Madhya Pradesh Tourism will introduce better facilities for the entertainment industry.
Notably, Tigmanshu Dhulia, known for ‘Paan Singh Tomar’ and ‘Bullet Raja’ has also landed in Bhopal to shoot for his upcoming movie ‘Yaara’.
While talking about his visit to Madhya Pradesh, Tigmanshu said, “No doubt, Madhya Pradesh has always remained in the headlines for its rich culture and heritage. Moreover, this State is enchanting for its scenic beauty. I will shoot a part of my movie here. Having a 20-day schedule I will shoot in Mandu and nearby villages and forests.” He further said that he will surely ponder over shooting his next movie in State.
Singh said, “We are really proud that the beautiful scenic locations are attracting the Bollywood industry and we would try to make appropriate schemes to promote film tourism.”