Delhi needs setup for filmmaking

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tills from films Shuttlecock Boys

Mumbai unarguably enjoys the status of the “most equipped” city for filmmaking with some of the best shoot locations, studios and artistes. But Delhi, even though it has emerged as a popular spot for shoots, lacks the basic necessary requirements for making a film.

Director Hemant Gaba, who shot his internationally acclaimed Shuttlecock Boys here, feels that with increasing numbers of Delhiites entering the film line, it’s high time the capital had its own movie-making infrastructure.
“It’s time that Delhi had its own film setup. I have been born and brought up in Delhi and I really don’t like to go back to Mumbai,” he said in an interview.
Experts in the field couldn’t agree more. “There is an increase in the characters emerging from the capital city. For instance, a Delhi guy who can be a ‘rockstar’, a sperm donor and a lover (Vicky Donor). Directors know that shooting here creates a buzz that adds to the publicity and success of the film. But we need a body to integrate all the entities together. So whether it’s seeking a permit to access the best studios or infrastructure, there should be a body looking into the needs of directors coming to the city.
A look at recent Bollywood flicks shot in Delhi makes it quite evident that the city provides options of various kinds of historic and modern locations. What is needed is a smoother and faster process and documentation,” says Gaurav, co-founder, Filmbooth India. At Kunzum Travel Café, where they screen independent films at least two-three times a week, they also encourage interactions with filmmakers.
“More events like these could further generate an interest in filmmaking in Delhi. I don’t see an eco-system for filmmaking here. Studios are scattered, and there are no forums to bring those associated with filmmaking together. I feel a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model is required to develop a sort of film city. I don’t think the one in Noida has lived up to its promise. I see mostly TV studios there. Also, the authorities need to cut down on the number of permissions required to shoot a film. It is just a waste of time,” says Ajay Jain of Kunzum.
He further adds that even among the spurt of studios coming up not many are suited for proper filming. “They look more for editing etc. With limited real estate, perhaps schools and colleges could let out their spaces in return for giving their students a chance to learn filmmaking,” he adds. Director Satish Kaushik says that although the city has infrastructure for the production stage, it majorly lacks in post production requirements. “For instance, Delhi lacks mixing theatres, editing suites, well experienced make up artistes, etc. Delhi’s government should give a one window clearance for all shoots. With the setting up of a film council, there will be a proper infrastructure in place,” he concludes