Bihar Emerging as a New Hub for Film Production

Patna: With the initiative of the Nitish Kumar government, Bihar is rapidly becoming a preferred destination for film production. The state’s rich historical heritage, scenic villages, and cities along the Ganga have made it an attractive option for filmmakers from India and abroad. The Film Promotion Policy 2024, the establishment of a film city, grant schemes, and fast-track shooting permissions have contributed to this transformation, making Bihar a new hotspot for Bollywood and web series shoots.

Since the implementation of the policy on July 19, 2024, Bihar Film Development and Finance Corporation Limited has facilitated shooting permissions for 11 films, including a web series and a documentary. These projects span multiple languages such as Hindi, Bhojpuri, Maithili, and even an international English film. Many of these films have already completed their production with the state’s support, including police protection and other necessary facilities.

The shooting of director AR Murugadoss’s upcoming film Madharasi is currently underway in Bihar. Similarly, Oh My Dog, directed by Oh My God 2 filmmaker Amit Rai and starring Bihar’s own Pankaj Tripathi, is being shot at various locations across the state. Additionally, a massive film set is under construction in Valmiki Nagar for a major project by filmmaker Sagar Srivastava, further boosting Bihar’s film industry presence.

To attract filmmakers, the Bihar government is offering a subsidy of up to Rs. 4 crore, the highest among Indian states. Films that complete at least 75 percent of their shooting in Bihar are eligible for this grant. Bhojpuri film Sanghatia, produced by Vineet Jha and directed by Abhishek Chauhan, has completed shooting in Bihar and is in the censor process. It is expected to be the first film to receive a subsidy under this policy.

The film policy also includes provisions for scholarships to support Bihar students studying at prestigious institutions like the Pune Film Institute, Satyajit Ray Film Institute, and the National School of Drama. One such scholarship has already been granted. On Bihar Diwas, a master class on film acting was conducted by renowned trainer Hemant Mahor at Aryabhatta Gyan University, drawing a large number of aspiring actors and filmmakers.