Anubhav Sinha speaking at the 11th India International Film Tourism Conclave (IIFTC)
“Ramoji Rao Film City Sets the Standard for Filmmaking Convenience,” says Anubhav Sinha
The 11th India International Film Tourism Conclave (IIFTC) event had a panel discussion focused on enhancing the relationship between India’s film industry and state film commissions. Renowned filmmaker Anubhav Sinha shared compelling insights on the expectations and challenges filmmakers face when engaging with film commissions across various states. The panel included esteemed representatives from the Film Cells of Gujarat, Maharashtra, New Delhi and Bihar. The conversation centred on addressing the complexities of film permissions, production logistics, and state incentives.
In the discussion, Anubhav Sinha commended Ramoji Rao Film City, emphasising its unique infrastructure and comprehensive amenities, which he considers a “paragon of convenience” for filmmakers. Sinha highlighted the Hyderabad-based studio as a model for film-friendly setups, suggesting that similar conveniences could be adopted nationwide.
Anubhav Sinha, known for critically acclaimed films such as Article 15 and Thappad, shared his insights with film commission representatives from various states, emphasizing how Ramoji Rao Film City offers more than just filming spaces. “Ramoji is in a league of its own,” he remarked. “They offer everything a filmmaker could need in one location – studios, accommodation, logistics, and permissions. For any production, that’s priceless.”
Sinha described the film city’s all-encompassing environment as “ideal” for both filmmakers and crew, providing facilities that range from star accommodations to crew accommodations, production offices, and equipment rentals, all in a self-contained ecosystem. This one-stop setup allows producers and directors to focus on their work without being bogged down by logistical challenges.
He illustrated Ramoji Rao Film City’s advantages with a real-world example, saying, “Imagine flying to Hyderabad, driving directly to the film city, and having everything right there – it’s a complete experience. You don’t have to scramble for location permits, hotel bookings, or equipment, because Ramoji offers it all.” He noted that this infrastructure brings invaluable time and cost savings, allowing filmmakers to focus more fully on their craft.
According to Sinha, the film industry could benefit greatly from similar film-friendly environments in other states. He pointed out that convenience, more than subsidies, drives producers’ location choices, especially with the increasing scale and demands of filmmaking in India. “If other film commissions could facilitate this same ease of access, the appeal would be even broader,” he said.
The acclaimed director expressed his vision of a future where film commissions nationwide prioritize convenience, offering faster permits, on-site accommodations, and cost-effective solutions similar to Ramoji’s. He called for film bodies to consider the significant impact that streamlined infrastructure, like that of Ramoji Rao Film City, could have in supporting and advancing India’s burgeoning film industry.
