Mumbai: Madhya Pradesh has once again reaffirmed its position as a top destination for film production by being recognized as the best film-friendly state in India, winning the National Award twice (2017 and 2020). The state’s continuous efforts to foster a thriving film industry were highlighted during a knowledge session organized by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board at the ongoing 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.
The session, titled “Lights, Camera, Collaboration: Government and Industry Partnership for Filming in Madhya Pradesh,” saw insights shared by Principal Secretary of the Tourism and Culture Department and Managing Director of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, along with prominent filmmakers and actors including Director Amar Kaushik, CEO of Aamir Khan Productions Ms. Aparna Purohit, and actors Abhishek Banarjee, Nitanshi Goel, Sparsh Shrivastava, and Vani Tikoo Tripathi.
Shri Shukla addressed the attendees by detailing the state’s successful Film Tourism Policy, which has been designed to enhance the film-making experience and provide a favorable environment for filmmakers. He highlighted the launch of the Film Facilitation Cell to streamline the process for filmmakers and ensure prompt permissions for shooting within 15 working days, a first in India.
Sheo Shekhar Shukla said “Madhya Pradesh is proudly two times national award winner of most film friendly state 2017 & 2020. The state is undoubtedly a must-visit state for film shooting. The state government has created the Film Facilitation Cell to promote filmmaking and shooting within the state. Madhya Pradesh is undeniably a naturally stunning offbeat multispecialty destination and paradise for filmmakers seeking picturesque locations. The state’s diverse locations from rich cultural heritage, vibrant wildlife and sacred spiritual destinations provide a visually stunning film set making it a perennial favourite among filmmakers. Madhya Pradesh boasts excellent connectivity by road and air. Recognizing the industry’s needs and the state’s stunning locales, the government has implemented a film policy offering lucrative incentives to filmmakers. All these factors have solidified Madhya Pradesh’s position as a premier film shooting destination.”
Director Amar Kaushik confirmed that the ‘Stree’ horror-comedy franchise will continue with sequels, announcing this during a Knowledge Series seminar at IFFI. The upcoming films will be mainly shot in Madhya Pradesh, a popular filming spot due to its varied landscapes and incentives. Originally planned for Goa, the first ‘Stree’ was moved to Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh to avoid horror clichés. Kaushik aimed for a unique city setting over traditional haunted houses or beaches. The ‘Stree’ franchise, featuring Rajkummar Rao, Shraddha Kapoor, and Pankaj Tripathi, has seen commercial success blending humor, horror, and social themes.
Principal Secretary Shri Shukla announced updates to the Madhya Pradesh Film Tourism Policy, incorporating feedback from filmmakers, industry experts, and stakeholders. The new Film Tourism Policy 2.0 aims to enhance film production in the state by offering more facilities and incentives. It will soon be unveiled to boost Madhya Pradesh as a top film shooting destination in India, attracting global filmmakers, showcasing untapped tourist spots, and fostering local employment.
The state’s comprehensive film production incentive policy also offers financial grants based on the film’s budget and the percentage of shooting done in Madhya Pradesh. The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board is promoting a one-stop-shop system for filmmakers and continues to develop initiatives to support the entertainment industry, from tours for filmmakers to collaborations that boost film tourism.
Madhya Pradesh’s proactive approach to film tourism and production continues to make it an attractive destination for the film industry, ensuring the state remains at the forefront of India’s evolving film landscape.
