The idea is to get as authentic as possible. As producer Sunjoy Wadhwa says, "It's impossible to replicate the real essence of Varanasi anywhere in India because the place is so unique. The cultural and traditional fibre of a particular place cannot be recreated."
While the cost of shooting outside Mumbai may be more, it is far more convenient for the unit. Says a producer on condition of anonymity , "There is a huge union problem in Mumbai. For small issues sometimes, shoots get stalled. Going out of Mumbai also saves on time and energy ."
Here's a look at the shows that have shot outside the city in recent times...
TashnE-Ishq
HOTSPOTS:
Ludhiana, Amritsar
Significant portions of this show, set against a Punjabi backdrop, are shot in Punjab to make it authentic.
Siya Ke Ram
HOTSPOTS:
Sri Lanka, Darjeeling, Bhutan, Nepal and Le Pakshi
The Taadka sequence was shot in Darjeeling and Bhutan. The unit also shot in Nepal, Le Pakshi (Andhra Pradesh), Telengana, Kerala and Bhuj and have moved to Sri Lanka for the Ravan sequence.
Ek Tha Raja Ek Thi Rani
HOTSPOT:
Laxmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara
The magnificent Laxmi Vilas Palace of Vadodara became the ideal backdrop to shoot the show.
Silsila Pyaar Ka
HOTSPOTS:
Bhopal, Indore
The show is set in Madhya Pradesh and the unit shot major portions at the Bhopal airport and other popular spots.
Diya Aur Baati Hum
HOTSPOT:
Bhopal
The show now has a new track focusing on India-Pakistan love story. For this, the cast is shooting in Bhopal, which will be shown as Pakistan. They would have loved to shoot in Pakistan but since it wasn't possible, Bhopal seemed like the next best option.
Tamanna
(yet to go on air)
Hotspots: Ahmedabad, Jamnagar and Junagadh
Says producer Ajinkya Deo, "We wanted the earthy feel of a place attached to the show.When a show is about Gujarat, it's nice to shoot in actual locations that make it look authentic."
Book Talk
Anupamaa
