Russia Emerges as a Prominent Shooting Destination for Indian Filmmakers: Expert

India is a leader in the field of film production and this holds great opportunity for cooperation between Russia and India. Dr. Elena Remizova, director of the Russian House in Mumbai, said during her talk at the ongoing Saint-Petersburg Economic Forum (SPIEF 2024).

Call it a cinematic love between two nations or an exploration of uncharted territories, the trend of filming movies in Russia is on the rise among Indian filmmakers who have been looking at new international destinations to shoot their scenes.

India produces about 2,000 films per year, hence, the cooperation between the nation and Russia in this area looks very promising, Dr. Remizova noted.

Meanwile, Dasha Kotwani, director of Indian Films and Indian National Cultural Centre SITA, told Sputnik India that for Indian filmmakers, who are constantly seeking fresh and captivating shooting locations for their film, Russia offers a breathtaking canvas with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and architectural wonders.

"This makes for a win-win collaboration for both the nations. Filming in Russia not only adds an international appeal to Indian films but also contributes to the promotion of Russian tourism," Kotwani.

Infrastructure and Government Support

One of the biggest factors that fuels the growing demand for film co-productions is Russia offering logistical support and cost-effective production facilities, making it an attractive choice for Indian filmmakers to capture visually captivating scenes.

"The film industry of Russia and India has played a crucial role in cementing the long-standing history of cooperation, cultural and entertainment exchange between India and Russia. The Russian film market is generally receptive. The Russian government and film industry are very supportive of cultural exchange and co-productions," Kotwani added.

Meantime, the Russian-based firm, Indian Films, has been facilitating film-related collaborations, including the distribution of Indian content in Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), as well as Russian content in the Pan-Indian market.

From negotiating contracts and agreements for filmmakers, arranging location scouting and permits, assisting with crew and equipment rentals to supporting promotion and distribution through Russian exhibitors, organizing film festivals and much more, Indian Films have been instrumental in bridging a strong partnership between Indian and Russian film productions.

However, there are some challenges that Indian filmmakers face when working in Russia.

"To deal with language barriers, cultural differences, and regulatory requirements, we facilitate subtitling and dubbing Indian content into Russian, and also support communication and coordination between Indian and Russian filmmakers or exhibitors. We encourage adapting content to suit the Russian market while maintaining its authenticity," Kotwani said.

Collaboration in Action

In April this year, 11 Moscow film companies visited India and interacted with top Indian filmmakers and producers to facilitate bilateral film partnerships and co-productions.

Of late, famous Indian actor Vijay, along with renowned Tamil director Venkat Prabhu, made headlines for filming their next big movie 'The Goat' in Moscow.

From 'Ek Tha Tiger' and 'Tiger 3' starring Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif; 'Pathaan' starring Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone; 'Runway 34' starring Amitabh Bachchan and Ajay Devgn's to R. Madhavan's 'Rocketry' and Tamil movie 'Cobra', several Indian blockbusters have been shot across Russia's scenic beauty in the past.

Indo-Russian Relations

Moscow Film Delegation's Visit to India Sets Stage for Movie Collaboration

27 April, 13:38

Russia Emerging as a Prominent Destination for Indian Filmmakers

Infrastructure and Government Support

Collaboration in Action