Patna — Patna is fast becoming a favoured destination for filmmakers, as acclaimed actor Pankaj Tripathi begins shooting his latest film O My Dog in the Bihar capital. The project, directed by Oh My God 2 filmmaker Amit Rai, marks a significant boost for the state’s film industry, which is seeing a resurgence thanks to Bihar’s new film promotion policy.
The film, produced by Amit Rai and Ajay Rai, is being shot across multiple locations in and around Patna, including the historic Sultan Palace, Marine Drive, Naya Tola, Bhikhna Pahari, R Block, Chiraiyatand and Hajipur on Veerchand Patel Path. Additional shoots are also scheduled in Chapra and Koilwar, with production expected to continue for another month.
Joining Tripathi in lead roles are Geeta Agarwal and veteran actor Pawan Malhotra. Tripathi has already begun filming in Patna and was spotted on set at Sultan Palace.
Bollywood eyes Bihar
The Department of Arts, Culture and Youth, which oversees the Bihar State Film Development and Finance Corporation, said the state’s film-friendly initiatives are beginning to yield results. According to the department, several prominent figures in the Hindi film industry, including Govinda, have shown interest in shooting in Bihar. Filmmaker Vipul Shah and The Kashmir Files director Vivek Agnihotri are also reportedly considering Bihar for their upcoming projects.
Officials hope this trend will help position Bihar as a new hotspot on the Indian film map.
A boost for tourism and employment
The government expects the rise in film shoots to bring wider economic and social benefits to the state. “Film shoots will not only contribute to state revenue but will also help promote tourism,” a department spokesperson said. “As filming takes place in locations recently beautified by the government, their visibility will increase, creating more employment opportunities for local residents.”
Annual film festival planned
In a further push to support cinema, the Department of Art and Culture announced it will organise an annual film festival in Patna. The event will celebrate both Hindi and Bhojpuri cinema, while promoting awareness of Bihar’s film policy. Outstanding contributors to the film industry will also be honoured during the festival.
As cameras roll across Patna’s streets and landmarks, the city’s transformation into a cinematic backdrop marks a new chapter for Bihar’s cultural and creative identity.
