Rajasthan has become a top choice for filmmakers, with 61 projects—ranging from web series and documentaries to ad films, feature films, TV shows, and music videos—filmed across the state in the last year. Cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Sikar, Nagaur, Ajmer, and the Shekhawati region have emerged as popular destinations for directors and producers. The state’s allure, which has captivated filmmakers since Bollywood’s golden era, continues to draw both Indian and international productions.
Iconic locations such as Chittorgarh Fort, where the song Aaj Phir Jeene Ki Tamanna Hai from Guide was shot, and Amer’s Sheesh Mahal, home to legendary scenes from Mughal-e-Azam, remain favorites among filmmakers and tourists. Beyond its majestic palaces and forts, Rajasthan’s vibrant culture, folk traditions, and warm hospitality make it an ideal setting for film projects.
Tourism Secretary Ravi Jain highlighted Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari’s efforts to establish Rajasthan as a global center for cinema. She noted that the state’s policies are tailored to support filmmakers, making the shooting process smooth and efficient. Diya Kumari views the upcoming Silver Jubilee Celebration of IIFA, set for March 8-9 in Jaipur, as a historic moment for Rajasthan. She believes the event will not only celebrate Indian cinema but also boost the state’s cultural and tourism profile worldwide.
“The IIFA event in Jaipur will shine a spotlight on Rajasthan’s tourism destinations. It will also provide a platform for local artists, craftsmen, and cultural groups to showcase their work. Additionally, it will create job opportunities in tourism, hospitality, and film production, contributing to the state’s economic growth,” she said.
Rajasthan’s Film Tourism Policy, combined with strong support from local authorities and the state’s cultural richness, has made it a prime choice for filmmakers. The recent surge in film projects and the upcoming IIFA event underscore Rajasthan’s growing reputation as a hub for both Indian and international cinema.
Supportive Policies and Infrastructure for Filmmakers
According to Tourism Secretary Ravi Jain, Rajasthan’s film tourism policy offers incentives, tax rebates, and logistical assistance, creating a welcoming environment for filmmakers. This has led to a notable increase in film projects, with 61 productions completed in the past year.
Deputy Director Dalip Singh Rathore added that Rajasthan not only provides stunning locations but also ensures efficient administrative support, making film shoots hassle-free.
Key Productions Filmed in Rajasthan Over the Past Year
- Web Series: Freedom at Midnight (Jaipur), Delhi Crime Season 3 (Jhunjhunu, Sikar), Mod (Jaipur), NEET (Kota), Co-Ed (Jodhpur), Los Montaner (Jaipur), Freedom at Midnight (Jodhpur)
- Documentaries: Sekai Sun (The World Heritage) (Jaipur), Cruising with Susan Calman – India and the Golden Triangle (Jaipur), Cycling for Love (Jodhpur)
- Ad Films: Hyundai Bharat (Jaipur), Harley Davidson (Jaipur), Aurelia Clothes (Jaipur), MG Cyberster (Jaipur Rural), Castrol Oil (Jodhpur), TVS Lifestyle Shoot (Jaipur)
- TV Shows: Crime Patrol (Jaipur), Peking Express (Jaipur, Ajmer, Jodhpur), Pyar Testing (Jaipur), Dil Ko Tumse Pyar Hua (Jodhpur)
- Feature Films: Khel Khel Mein (Udaipur), Hit: The Third Case (Jaipur, Jhunjhunu), Jolly LLB 3 (Ajmer), MotiSethani (Jhunjhunu), LondonThumakda (Jaipur), Murdabad (Jaipur), Kurja (Jaipur), Roo-Ba-Roo (Jodhpur), Tere Bina (Ajmer), Hukum (Jodhpur)
- Music Videos: Ve Ranjhana (Jodhpur), Ram Ji (Jaipur), Milan (Jaipur), Pyar Ki Had (Jodhpur)
Madhuri Dixit’s Connection with Jaipur
The iconic song Dhak Dhak Karne Laga from Beta, featuring Madhuri Dixit and Anil Kapoor, was filmed at Jaipur’s Kanak Ghati. The song’s popularity earned Madhuri Dixit the nickname ‘Dhak Dhak Girl.’
Internationally Acclaimed Films Shot in Rajasthan
- Gandhi (Delhi, Rajasthan)
- Octopussy (Udaipur, Lake Pichola, Lake Palace)
- The Four Pavilions (Samode Palace, Rajasthan)
- Heat and Dust (Udaipur, Jaipur)
- Holy Smoke (Pushkar)
Top Filming Locations in Rajasthan
- Forests: Ranthambore, Bharatpur, Sitamata, Kumbhalgarh, Darrah, Ramgarh, Tal Chhapar (Churu), Desert National Park (Jaisalmer)
- Hill Stations: Udaipur, Mount Abu, Alwar, Pushkar, Kota, Jhalawar, Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh
- Lakes: Udaipur, Alwar, Rajsamand, Mount Abu, Jhalawar, Jodhpur, Sawai Madhopur, Bharatpur, Bundi
- Deserts: Jaisalmer (Sam, Khuri, Dangri, Kuldhara), Bikaner (Karnisar Bhatiyan, Motha, Katariasar), Shekhawati (Fatehpur, Churu, Ramgarh), Barmer (Osian, Kiradu)
Historical and Architectural Marvels:
- Jaipur: Hawa Mahal, Amer Fort, City Palace
- Jodhpur: Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan
- Udaipur: City Palace, Lake Pichola
- Jaisalmer: Sonar Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli
- Bikaner: Junagarh Fort, Laxmi Niwas Palace
- Chittorgarh: Chittorgarh Fort, Vijay Stambh
- Mount Abu: Dilwara Jain Temples, Nakki Lake
Top 10 Bollywood Films Shot in Rajasthan
- Bajirao Mastani – Amer Palace, Jaipur
- Dhanak (2016) – Jaisalmer
- Jodha Akbar – Amer Fort, Amer
- Bajrangi Bhaijaan – Mandawa, Jhunjhunu
- Badrinath Ki Dulhania – Ghatotkach Circle, Kota
- Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela – Udaipur
- Highway – Bikaner
- Khubsurat – Laxmi Niwas, Bikaner
- PK – Mandawa, Jhunjhunu
- Dor – Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
With its film-friendly policies, stunning locations, and rich cultural heritage, Rajasthan is rapidly becoming a leading global destination for cinema.
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