During the ongoing Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart, a special panel discussion titled “The Future of Film Sector in Madhya Pradesh: From Reel to Real Growth” brought together filmmakers, producers, actors, and policy experts who shared their perspectives on the state’s growing prominence as a preferred film destination.
Speaking on the occasion, Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism, Culture, Home, and Religious Trusts & Endowments, and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla said, “Madhya Pradesh is a film city in itself. Every location here is aesthetically captivating and adds immense beauty to cinematic storytelling.” He highlighted that the state offers a peaceful, safe, and production-friendly environment, supported by highly efficient line producers who have made filming in the state seamless and hassle-free.”
Additional Managing Director, MP Tourism Board, Ms. Bidisha Mukherjee, stated that Madhya Pradesh has now emerged as a preferred destination for film shootings, owing to three key factors — a film-friendly policy, ease of doing business, and stunning shooting locations. She further elaborated, “Our Film Tourism Policy encourages projects that promote local culture, regional languages, women-centric stories, and local talent by offering attractive incentives. A transparent and fast-track single-window system ensures a smooth process for filmmakers. Above all, the warm hospitality of the people of Madhya Pradesh gives every production the feeling of home.”
Madhya Pradesh – The Nursery of Talent: Renowned actor Shri Gajraj Rao praised the dedication and energy of tourism officials in Madhya Pradesh. “The efficiency and motivation of the officials directly reflect in how effortless shooting experiences have become here. The affectionate behavior of the local people adds further comfort. With its rich legacy of theatre and literature, Madhya Pradesh can truly be called a nursery of talent. There is hardly a need to bring supporting artists from Mumbai, as the state itself has a vast pool of skilled and professional performers,” he said.
Coming to Madhya Pradesh Feels Like Coming Home: Actress Ms. Sunita Rajwar shared her emotional connection with the state, saying, “Through projects like Gullakand Panchayat, I have become one with Madhya Pradesh. The warmth of its soil and people make it feel like home — coming here is like returning to my maternal place. Madhya Pradesh has a unique charm that binds actors, producers, writers, and directors alike. The journey of my cinematic career began here, and I owe much to this land. The talent here is on par with, if not ahead of, Mumbai.”
All Elements Needed for a Film’s Script Exist in Madhya Pradesh: Director Shri Vishal Furia Director Shri Vishal Furia recalled his early filming experience in 2016–17 while shooting episodes of Savdhaan Indiain the state. “The warmth and cooperation of local people left a lasting impression on me. After returning to Mumbai, I encouraged my colleagues to explore Madhya Pradesh as a filming destination. Every element a script demands — from natural beauty and heritage to urban infrastructure — can be found here.”
Local Artists Are Hardworking and Skilled: Producer Ms. Monisha Advani from Emmay Entertainment said, “Madhya Pradesh offers excellent connectivity, supportive local production services, and extremely talented local artists. The filming experience here is seamless and welcoming. The government’s cooperative environment and attractive film tourism incentives are strong enablers that have not only attracted domestic filmmakers but are also drawing international productions to the state.”
Working with Madhya Pradesh’s Artists Is a Privilege: Writer, lyricist, composer, and actor Shri Swanand Kirkire remarked, “Bhopal is truly the city of artists. For filmmakers, it is a privilege to collaborate with the talent of Madhya Pradesh. The state’s rich cultural heritage and the stories rooted in its soil deserve to be shared with the world. The efforts of the Tourism Department to promote this artistic expression are commendable.” He concluded his address with a soulful rendition of his iconic song ‘Bawra Mann’, dedicating it to Madhya Pradesh’s creative spirit.
Spanish filmmaker Ms. Anna Saura appreciated the expanding international presence of Madhya Pradesh in the global film market. “The state’s filming-friendly policies, attractive subsidies, and post-production infrastructure will soon make it a global hub for international film projects,” she said.
Ms. Lara Molina from the Spain Film Commission added, “Filming in Madhya Pradesh has been a delightful experience. I look forward to returning and will certainly recommend the state to other international filmmakers.”
Actor Shri Shivankit Singh Parihar, who moderated the session, said, “I belong to Madhya Pradesh, and shooting here feels like reliving my childhood. Every corner of this land feels personal and nostalgic.”
The session also featured a short film showcasing Madhya Pradesh’s cinematic journey, film tourism policy, and its diverse filming locations, further reaffirming the state’s growing stature as a premier destination for film production.
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