Friday, February 7, 2025

Rajasthan has become a top choice for filmmakers, with 61 projects—ranging from web series and documentaries to ad films, feature films, TV shows, and music videos—filmed across the state last year. Cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Sikar, Nagaur, Ajmer, and the Shekhawati region have become popular destinations for directors and producers. The state’s allure has captivated filmmakers since Bollywood’s golden era and continues to draw Indian and international productions.

Filmmakers and tourists alike favour iconic locations such as Chittorgarh Fort, where they filmed the song “Aaj Phir Jeene Ki Tamanna Hai” from “Guide,” and Amer’s Sheesh Mahal, which features legendary scenes from “Mughal-e-Azam.” Beyond its majestic palaces and forts, Rajasthan’s vibrant culture, folk traditions, and warm hospitality make it an ideal setting for film projects.

Tourism Secretary Ravi Jain highlighted Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari’s efforts to establish Rajasthan as a global centre for cinema. She pointed out that the state’s policies actively support filmmakers, ensuring a smooth and efficient shooting process. Diya Kumari views the upcoming Silver Jubilee Celebration of IIFA, set for March 8-9 in Jaipur, as a historic moment for Rajasthan. She believes the event will not only celebrate Indian cinema but also boost the state’s cultural and tourism profile worldwide.

“The IIFA event in Jaipur will spotlight Rajasthan’s tourism destinations. It will also provide local artists, artisans, and cultural groups a platform to showcase their work. Additionally, it will create job opportunities in tourism, hospitality, and film production, contributing to the state’s economic growth,” she said.

Rajasthan’s Film Tourism Policy, with strong support from local authorities and the state’s cultural richness, has made it a prime choice for filmmakers. The recent surge in film projects and the upcoming IIFA event underscore Rajasthan’s growing reputation as a hub for Indian and international cinema.

Supportive Policies and Infrastructure for Filmmakers

According to Tourism Secretary Ravi Jain, Rajasthan’s film tourism policy offers incentives, tax rebates, and logistical assistance, creating a welcoming environment for filmmakers. The increase in investment in the film industry has resulted in a significant rise in film projects, with 61 productions completed over the past year.

Deputy Director Dalip Singh Rathore added that Rajasthan provides stunning locations and efficient administrative support, making film shoots hassle-free.

Key Productions Filmed in Rajasthan Over the Past Year

Web Series: Freedom at Midnight (Jaipur), Delhi Crime Season 3 (Jhunjhunu, Sikar), Mod (Jaipur), NEET (Kota), Co-Ed (Jodhpur), Los Montaner (Jaipur), Freedom at Midnight (Jodhpur)

Documentaries: Sekai Sun (The World Heritage) (Jaipur), Cruising with Susan Calman – India and the Golden Triangle (Jaipur), Cycling for Love (Jodhpur)

Ad Films: Hyundai Bharat (Jaipur), Harley Davidson (Jaipur), Aurelia Clothes (Jaipur), MG Cyberster (Jaipur Rural), Castrol Oil (Jodhpur), TVS Lifestyle Shoot (Jaipur)

TV Shows: Crime Patrol (Jaipur), Peking Express (Jaipur, Ajmer, Jodhpur), Pyar Testing (Jaipur), Dil Ko Tumse Pyar Hua (Jodhpur)

Feature Films: Khel Khel Mein (Udaipur), Hit: The Third Case (Jaipur, Jhunjhunu), Jolly LLB 3 (Ajmer), MotiSethani (Jhunjhunu), LondonThumakda (Jaipur), Murdabad (Jaipur), Kurja (Jaipur), Roo-Ba-Roo (Jodhpur), Tere Bina (Ajmer), Hukum (Jodhpur)

Music Videos: Ve Ranjhana (Jodhpur), Ram Ji (Jaipur), Milan (Jaipur), Pyar Ki Had (Jodhpur)

Madhuri Dixit’s Connection with Jaipur

The iconic song Dhak Dhak Karne Laga from Beta, featuring Madhuri Dixit and Anil Kapoor, was filmed at Jaipur’s Kanak Ghati. The song’s popularity earned Madhuri Dixit the nickname ‘Dhak Dhak Girl.’

Internationally Acclaimed Films Shot in Rajasthan

  1. Gandhi (Delhi, Rajasthan)
  2. Octopussy (Udaipur, Lake Pichola, Lake Palace)
  3. The Four Pavilions (Samode Palace, Rajasthan)
  4. Heat and Dust (Udaipur, Jaipur)
  5. Holy Smoke (Pushkar)

Top Filming Locations in Rajasthan

Forests: Ranthambore, Bharatpur, Sitamata, Kumbhalgarh, Darrah, Ramgarh, Tal Chhapar (Churu), Desert National Park (Jaisalmer)

Hill Stations: Udaipur, Mount Abu, Alwar, Pushkar, Kota, Jhalawar, Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh

Lakes: Udaipur, Alwar, Rajsamand, Mount Abu, Jhalawar, Jodhpur, Sawai Madhopur, Bharatpur, Bundi

Deserts: Jaisalmer (Sam, Khuri, Dangri, Kuldhara), Bikaner (Karnisar Bhatiyan, Motha, Katariasar), Shekhawati (Fatehpur, Churu, Ramgarh), Barmer (Osian, Kiradu)

 

Historical and Architectural Marvels:

Jaipur: Hawa Mahal, Amer Fort, City Palace

Jodhpur: Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan

Udaipur: City Palace, Lake Pichola

Jaisalmer: Sonar Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli

Bikaner: Junagarh Fort, Laxmi Niwas Palace

Chittorgarh: Chittorgarh Fort, Vijay Stambh

Mount Abu: Dilwara Jain Temples, Nakki Lake

Top 10 Bollywood Films Shot in Rajasthan

  1. Bajirao Mastani – Amer Palace, Jaipur
  2. Dhanak (2016) – Jaisalmer
  3. Jodha Akbar – Amer Fort, Amer
  4. Bajrangi Bhaijaan – Mandawa, Jhunjhunu
  5. Badrinath Ki Dulhania – Ghatotkach Circle, Kota
  6. Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela – Udaipur
  7. Highway – Bikaner
  8. Khubsurat – Laxmi Niwas, Bikaner
  9. PK – Mandawa, Jhunjhunu
  10. Dor – Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

With its film-friendly policies, stunning locations, and rich cultural heritage, Rajasthan is rapidly becoming a leading global cinema destination.

 



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