BMC woos film crews with new locations

Civic body promises to streamline process for obtaining nod for shoots, hopes to curb corruption

- Linah Baliga

In a first-of-its-kind move aimed at boosting the city's appeal for film and OTT productions, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has shortlisted several civic-owned properties across Mumbai as designated film shoot locations.

The initiative, approved by municipal commissioner Bhushan Gagrani, is part of a larger effort to streamline the filming permission process and position Mumbai as a competitive destination for content creators. “The revenue is not huge,” Gagrani told Hindustan Times. “But as a civic body, we must support and facilitate film shooting in the best possible manner.”

Mumbai has always been the heart of the film industry, and many of its films have been shot in the city’s studios and streets. However, in recent decades, Bollywood has preferred shooting locations outside the city and abroad owing to a mix of reasons, including logistical challenges, creative needs and a process that requires filmmakers to navigate a complex web of approvals.

In response, the BMC’s business development department has taken the step of opening up civic-owned locations to filmmakers. “Our objective is to create a film-industry-friendly environment and remove the hurdles that discouraged producers from staying in the city,” said a civic official involved in the initiative. “Once the locations are listed, filmmakers will no longer need to approach multiple departments for clearance. If the spot is available, they can simply apply and begin shooting.”

New scenery