Patna: The Bihar government is seeking to position the state as an emerging film production hub, unveiling a dedicated online portal that offers filmmakers detailed information on shooting locations, subsidies and permissions at the click of a button.
Officials say dozens of historical, cultural and natural sites across the state – including 15 prominent landmarks in the capital – are now being actively promoted to producers and directors. The initiative, developed by the Bihar State Film Finance Corporation Ltd., is designed to streamline the process of selecting locations and securing official clearances.
Among the sites identified in Patna are the Bihar Museum, Patna Museum, Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library, Indira Gandhi Planetarium, Bihar Legislative Assembly, Buddha Smriti Park and Sanjay Gandhi Jaivik Udyan. Other notable landmarks include Sultan Palace, the Old Secretariat and JP Ganga Path, each promoted for their architectural and historical appeal.
Beyond the capital, the state is showcasing a diverse range of backdrops. These include the Rohtasgarh Fort, the World Peace Stupa, the Kakolat Waterfall, the Tutla Bhawani Waterfall, the Barabar Caves and the Valmiki Tiger Reserve. Officials say the mix of heritage sites, waterfalls, forests, hills and modern infrastructure provides a varied canvas for feature films, web series and documentaries.
The government argues that promoting film production will not only enhance national and international recognition of Bihar’s cultural heritage but also generate employment and boost tourism. Hotels, transport operators and other local service providers are already reporting increased business linked to film shoots, officials say.
Under the state’s film policy, producers can apply online for shooting permissions through the Film Finance Corporation’s website. Once approved, filmmakers are able to shoot at selected locations, with virtual previews of major sites also available to aid planning.
According to Arvind Ranjan Das, an adviser to the corporation, 39 films have been approved since the policy was implemented, with 36 completing shooting. Subsidies are granted once 50% to 75% of filming takes place within the state, and payments are released after completion and broadcast.
The website also lists projects already filmed in Bihar, including Sanghatia, O My Dog, Magadh Putra, Echo of Absent, Aakhri Lesson, Champaran Satyagraha, Jai Pashupati Nath, The Long Journey Home and Bihar Ka Jalwa.
In addition, the corporation plans to upload a database of local artists, technicians, musicians and crew members, allowing industry professionals to register and connect directly with producers. Officials say the move will widen employment opportunities and reduce the need for local talent to seek work outside the state.
With streamlined permissions, financial incentives and a growing digital database of locations and professionals, the Bihar government hopes to establish the state as a competitive destination for film production in India.
