Delhi reigned as the shoot capital of 2014

This year, the Capital of the country also became the cynosure of all eyes, with many a Bollywood film shoot taking place here. From several big flicks to the ones made on a humble budget — Delhi saw an increase in film shoots by up to 30% as compared to the previous years.

This year, the Capital of the country also became the cynosure of all eyes, with many a Bollywood film shoot taking place here. From several big flicks to the ones made on a humble budget — Delhi saw an increase in film shoots by up to 30% as compared to the previous years. While some like actor Akshay Kumar 'feel at home' here, others like filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani find it 'exciting'.

Anupam-Kher-Piyush-Mishra-and-Annu-Kapoor-in-a-still-from-The-Shaukeens

“Delhi is one of the most amazing places to shoot in. It’s very topical when it comes to politics and other important issues. It becomes a reference point. I’ve had the best ­experiences of my career filming here,” says Akshay, whose Rs. 112.6 crore grosser, Holiday: A Soldier Is Never Off Duty, had many scenes shot in the city, as was his production, The Shaukeens.

Filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani, whose PK crossed the Rs. 200 crore mark in nine days (and still counting) at the domestic box office, says, “As a filmmaker, I’m looking out for newer spots constantly, and Delhi has tons of those. Overall, Delhi mein shoot karne mein mazaa aata hai.”

Director Kabir Sadanand, whose film Fugly was based in Delhi, too, says, “Delhi­ ­provides the ­perfect space to portray North India. The composition of the populace is a unique mix — Jaats, Punjabis, Biharis and more; to netas and the middle class.”

The official figures also suggest that the popularity of Delhi has gone up amongst the denizens of the showbiz. “This year, we saw a jump of about 25-30% in films getting shot here. And the reasons are many — the process of getting permission is easy and smooth, and we also have great support in terms of equipment and talent,” says Sudhir Sobti, chief manager (PR) Delhi Tourism.

Others shot in Delhi too

Kick
The Shaukeens
Kill Dil
Mardaani
Bewakoofiyaan
Humpty Sharma ki Dulhaniya
Heropanti
Highway
Fugly