With film tourism as its focus, Gujarat state has entered into an MoU with Worldwide Media Pvt. Ltd to host the upcoming Filmfare Awards for the first time. According to the state’s top officials, this opportunity will enable Gujarat to effectively showcase its high potential in cinematic tourism, attract filmmakers and credible investments and establish itself as a suitable filming destination.
The state’s commendable progress across various sectors, including tourism, has placed it firmly on the Indian and global tourism map, said Hareet Shukla, Secretary of Tourism Department. Gujarat’s Cinematic Tourism Policy, introduced in 2022, has been pivotal in this endeavour, promoting the development of the film industry within the state’s borders, he added. The policy, ever since, has attracted filmmakers with its offerings, and the award event will add yet another feather to the cap.
Among the opportunities to showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage and its key attractions, Gujarat’s cinematic tourism potential will also be on full display, spotlighting the state’s film-friendly policies, incentives for filmmakers, and experiences it has to offer.
According to the tourism officials, the event is expected to fuel Gujarat’s overall development as a cinematic tourism hub, attracting filmmakers and contributing to the state’s economic growth and cultural exchange.
“Organising this event in the state will attract a large number of celebrities, filmmakers, and industry professionals to Gujarat. This influx of visitors will not only boost tourism and the hotel industry but also generate employment opportunities, providing a fillip to the local economy,” said Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, during the sidelines of the MoU signing ceremony.
Buoyed by the success of hosting nine G20 meetings, Goa now aims to showcase its ‘beyond just beach’ offerings, with a focus on infrastructure investments and exploring partnerships in new markets. In an exclusive interview with ETTravelWorld, Minister for Tourism, Govt of Goa, Rohan Khaunte shared that the state government is keen on boosting ties with other countries for enhanced air connectivity and keeping ‘quality over quantity’ in tourism.
He added that the event is expected to foster cultural exchange between Gujarat’s local film industry and the Indian film fraternity. Artists and filmmakers from Gujarat will have a unique opportunity to interact and share ideas with professionals in the Indian film industry, gaining insights into new trends, technology, and techniques in film production.Beyond the immediate impact of the event, the state government’s investment in infrastructure, transportation, and hospitality for hosting the Awards is expected to leave a lasting legacy, as per the officials.
Improved facilities and services will eventually attract more visitors, elevating Gujarat’s status as a vibrant and sought-after tourist destination.
The announcement for Gujarat hosting the event was made official with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the State Government’s Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited (TCGL) and Worldwide Media Pvt. Ltd. The MoU was signed by MD and Commissioner of TCGL, Dr. Saurabh Pardhi on behalf of state government and Deepak Lambda on behalf of Worldwide Media.
