Chhattisgarh has taken a significant step towards strengthening its presence on India’s entertainment map with the foundation stone laying of the Chitrotpala International Film City and Tribal & Cultural Convention Centre in Naya Raipur. The Bhoomi Poojan ceremony was conducted by Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, marking the beginning of what is being positioned as India’s first fully equipped, world-class international film city.

India’s first fully equipped International Film City announced as Chhattisgarh CM lays foundation stone in Naya Raipur

The ambitious project has been envisioned by Tarun Rathi and is being developed by Rajnandini Entertainment Ltd (REL) and Indradeep Infra Ltd. Spread across 95 acres in its first phase, the Film City is designed as an integrated destination bringing together cinema, culture, tourism, trade and creative industries. Developed under the Special Assistance Scheme of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, the project aims to create a future-ready ecosystem for filmmakers and creative professionals.

Industry buzz around the Film City has already begun, with early discussions indicating that several upcoming productions in the pre-production stage may consider shooting here once the facility becomes operational. Reports also suggest that large-scale projects, including Golmaal 5, could explore the location, reflecting growing interest from mainstream Hindi cinema.

The development is further strengthened by the involvement of India Exposition Mart Limited (IEML) and the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH). Under the guidance of Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Chairman of IEML, and Shri Neeraj Khanna, Chairman of EPCH, the project will include an Exhibition Centre, Convention Centre, Hotel, Mart-cum-Business Showrooms, Helipad and allied infrastructure. These additions are expected to support not only film production but also exhibitions, cultural showcases and business events, while creating opportunities for local artisans, tribal communities, MSMEs and skilled youth.

Veteran filmmaker Anil Sharma was among the prominent industry figures present at the ceremony, signalling strong support from the film fraternity for the initiative. Several ministers, legislators and senior government officials also attended the event.

Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai said, “There has long been a demand from the people of the state for our own film city, which will help take stories from Chhattisgarh to global audiences. I am glad that the government is supporting this new world-class film city with ₹150 crore in the first phase and ₹250–300 crore in later phases through ppp model. It should take us about two years to develop this dream project in phase one.”

Sharing his vision, Tarun Rathi said, “We are trying to support filmmakers with all possible equipment and a complete ecosystem so that producers and crews from Mumbai and across India can come to Raipur to shoot and execute everything seamlessly. The accessibility and the shooting friendly environment will help the filmmakers from start to finish.”

Once completed, Chitrotpala International Film City is expected to position Naya Raipur as a key destination for film production, cultural exchange and large-scale entertainment events, while boosting local talent, employment and creative infrastructure across the state.

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