Madhya Pradesh : The New Hub of Indian Cinema, But at What, Cultural Cost?

In recent years, Madhya Pradesh has emerged as a prominent hub for film production. The state government’s 2020 film policy, offering incentives like waivers on location charges, streamlined shooting permits, subsidies, access to tourist destinations, and a filmmaker-friendly environment, has made the state a magnet for filmmakers.

This surge has not only attracted major production houses but also created employment opportunities and boosted tourism through cinema. Films like Stree, Badaam Ashram, Dabangg 3, Laapata Ladies, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, and the recently released Stree 2 have showcased picturesque locales like Chanderi, Mandu, Orchha, Bhopal, and Ujjain, making them more popular among tourists.

Are Films Truly Representing Madhya Pradesh's Heritage ?

However, a critical question arises: Is the sole purpose of Madhya Pradesh’s film policy to promote tourism? Does the policy truly achieve its broader cultural objectives? Upon closer examination, it becomes evident that the cinematic portrayal of these locations often overlooks their deep historical and cultural significance.

Cultural Missteps in Modern Cinema: A Closer Look at Chanderi and Orchha

Take, for example, Stree and its sequel Stree 2, both shot in Chanderi. Chanderi is far more than just a tourist destination. It is a historic town embodying Indian culture, art, and spirituality. Renowned for its silk sarees, rich architectural heritage, and religious significance, Chanderi boasts temples, stupas, and forts that narrate glorious chapters of Indian history. The town is a symbol of valor, having witnessed the Jauhar of over 1,600 women, the spiritual legacy of Sanatan Culture, and a thriving tradition of cultural scholarship.

Yet, Stree reduced Chanderi to a comedic and fictional haunted town. The film’s depiction paints a superficial and misleading image of the town, portraying it as a regressive, patriarchal society plagued by misogynistic folklore. Instead of celebrating Chanderi's vibrant heritage, the film perpetuates a narrative that diminishes its cultural identity. This reflects a troubling trend in Bollywood, where certain filmmakers, influenced by 'Marxist or leftist ideologies', exploit cinema to push specific agendas rather than honoring cultural authenticity.

Another glaring example is Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, shot in Orchha, the land of Lord Ram. Instead of highlighting the town’s rich traditions and historical grandeur, the film trivializes Hindu culture. With lyrics like “Jahan Jahan Paanv Pade Santan Ke Wahan Wahan Bantaadhaar,” the movie mocks religious sentiments and undermines Hindu traditions. Such depictions are not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern in Bollywood that repeatedly misrepresents Madhya Pradesh’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

What is Cultural Marxism and Its Role in Undermining Civilizations?

Communist Ideologies thou Cultural Marxism in Bollywood often targets Hindu traditions and symbols, portraying them negatively. In countless films, characters like rapists or corrupt figures are deliberately shown wearing sacred symbols like tilaks or rudraksha malas, reinforcing harmful stereotypes.

Similarly, historical places like Chanderi and Orchha are misrepresented; Stree turns Chanderi into a hub of superstition, while Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 mocks traditions in Orchha through disrespectful dialogues and depictions. These portrayals are not coincidental but a deliberate part of a larger ideological agenda to erode cultural pride and vilify India’s heritage under the guise of entertainment.

A Cultural and Civilizational Battle

If this trend continues unchecked, we risk eroding our identity. This is not just a matter of entertainment but a cultural battle for the survival of worlds oldest civilizational values. We must present our cultural treasures authentically to educate the younger generation and foster a sense of pride in our heritage.

Madhya Pradesh has so much to offer to the world—Kalidasa’s poetry, the timeless spirituality of Baba Mahakal, the grandeur of Sanchi, the artistry of Chanderi, the devotion of Orchha, the divinity of Omkareshwar, and the ancient wonders of Bhimbetka. If we fail to present our history and heritage accurately, our culture may one day be confined to textbooks.

What Needs to Change in the Current Film Policy?

While the current film policy has undoubtedly positioned Madhya Pradesh as a preferred shooting destination, it needs to evolve beyond promoting tourism. The policy should become a powerful medium to celebrate the state’s cultural and historical legacy. Key amendments are needed, such as:

Script Evaluation: Introducing cultural guidelines to ensure films respect local traditions and heritage.

Incentives for Regional Filmmaking: Additional subsidies for films made in local dialects like Braj, Bundeli, Nimadi, Malvi, and Bundelkhandi, featuring regional artists and themes.

Opportunities for Local Talent: Enforcing rules to ensure that technical crews, storytellers, and filmmakers from Madhya Pradesh get significant roles in productions. This would instill a sense of pride and respect for their cultural roots.

By doing so, Madhya Pradesh could not only preserve its heritage but also build a thriving regional film economy and One day, the heart of India may also become the heart of regional cinema, showcasing its rich cultural diversity to the world.

Article by

Mahi Dubey

Film Director
Guna - Madhya Pradesh