New heartland: Lights, camera, MP

VK Sanju

If Kerala proudly calls itself God’s Own Country, a slogan charted for tourism, Madhya Pradesh is The Heart of Incredible India. And taking this forward, it now aspires to be the Heartland of Indian Cinema. Officials and film professionals increasingly describe the State as a film city in itself. And at the Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart, the rare blend of natural beauty, modern facilities and gracious hospitality earned high praise.

Every script finds its setting here

For director Vishal Furia, Madhya Pradesh offers every element a script could ask for - natural beauty, heritage and modern urban ease. Beyond its landscapes, it is the emotional connection with its people that truly captivates artistes. Acclaimed actor Sunita Rajwar shared that filming in the State is a homecoming feeling, given the warmth of the land and its people.

Producers such as Monisha Advani of Emmay Entertainment have lauded the State’s strong support for the film industry. Efficient local production services and proactive government cooperation create a seamless, welcoming filming experience. This synergy of infrastructure and genuine hospitality cements Madhya Pradesh’s growing stature in Indian cinema.

Stage for titans The Bee Falls

Madhya Pradesh offers more than stunning locations; it is emerging as a cradle for fresh talent in Indian entertainment. Actor Gajaraj Rao feels the State’s rich theatrical and literary heritage has cultivated a wealth of skilled artists, eliminating the need to source co-actors from Mumbai.

Writer and lyricist Swarnith Kirkeri calls Bhopal a city of artists, where collaborating with the local creative community is a privilege. The State’s skilled workforce, which eases logistics and lowers production costs, draws filmmakers to Madhya Pradesh. A film tourism policy that champions local culture, languages and artists ensures this growth stays sustainable.

In world spotlight Garden in front of the Pandava Caves

Madhya Pradesh is positioning itself as a global film hub, going beyond just a Bollywood destination. Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board Additional Managing Director Bidisha Mukherjee says the State’s film-friendly policies, efficient single-window clearance system and ease of doing business bolster this vision - further strengthened by attractive subsidies and benefits for filmmakers.

Spanish film experts who participated in the Mart praised the State's approach. Larr Molina from the Spain Film Commission promised to share the delightful experience with other international film practitioners. Ann Saur expressed hope that attractive subsidies and post-production infrastructure would soon turn the State into a global hub.

By prioritizing safety, streamlined processes and financial incentives, Madhya Pradesh is poised to emerge swiftly as a competitive international film production hub.

Brand MP: Shoot here

Additional Chief Secretary Shiv Shankar Shukla highlighted that the State offered a peaceful, safe and production-friendly environment, with highly efficient line producers ensuring a seamless and hassle-free filming experience.

Director Vishal Furia said the warm cooperation he received from the locals during his first filming should only encourage him to recommend Madhya Pradesh to his co-workers.