Bollywood filmmakers' unyielding fascination for London

Bollywood filmmakers' unyielding fascination for London
Thursday, September 17, 2015 13:00 IST
While Bollywood's love affair with the English capital is quite well known, it is perhaps the first time that four film units are simultaneously shooting there... "Jin sar pe ho Waheguru ji ka haath, woh banate hai London ko dhobi ghat", went a dialogue in Sajid Khan's 2012 film 'Housefull 2', which was shot in the English capital. While the city is certainly far from being an open-air laundromat, the funny line in the comic caper, perhaps, aimed at emphasising B-Town's unyielding fascination for London - a hotspot for several filmmakers although newer and more economic destinations are gradually being explored.

With four film units currently parked there, the chances of bumping into a Bollywood star in the city are pretty high. And fans are making the most of it - posing with their cine idols and posting the pictures on social media. From Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif to Riteish Deshmukh and Lisa Haydon, a host of film celebs is being spotted at various locations across London shooting for their films. In the next few months, Bollywood will make its viewers journey to various scenic spots in London through their upcoming films. So, expect song and dance sequences with the Tower Bridge, London Eye, Big Ben, Westminster Bridge, Leicester Square and other landmarks serving as the backdrop.


A snapshot of Abhishek Bachchan, Boman Irani and Ritiesh Deshmukh visiting Ranbir on the set of Ae Dil Hai Mushkil

Lovely London
The latest unit to kick off its shoot schedule in London is Karan Johar's directorial venture 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' that stars Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. While Ranbir and Anushka have already started filming, Ash is slated to join them at a later stage. KJo has always maintained that London is his favourite destination - he had shot for 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham' (2001) there.


Karan Johar (left) with Anushka Sharma and Ranbir Kapoor in the English capital where they are shooting for 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil'

When 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' went on floors last week, KJo posted on Twitter, "You can never meet with the demands of the heart....our journey begins today." along with a snapshot of Anushka and Ranbir.

Stars everywhere
Another film that is being currently shot in London is 'Housefull 3'. The comic caper directed by Sajid-Farhad is the third instalment of the Housefull film series. The multi-starrer features Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, Ritesh Deshmukh, Jacqueline Fernandez, Nargis Fakhri, Lisa Haydon and Boman Irani.


The cast and crew of 'Housefull 3'

In fact, Karan and Ranbir had surprise guests on their sets recently when Abhishek, Riteish and Boman dropped by to greet them. As 'Housefull 2' was also shot in London, the makers felt the backdrop needed to be the same for the third part of the franchise as well.

Homecoming
Katrina Kaif, who hails from London, is presently shooting for debutante director Nitya Mehra's 'Baar Baar Dekho' in the English capital with co-star Sidharth Malhotra. The film about time travel revolves around a journey of a couple across different age groups. Kat also has beau Ranbir in London shooting for his film, but the lovebirds prefer to keep their meetings in and around the city as discreet as possible.


London is home for Katrina Kaif (left), who is currently there for the shoot of Nitya Mehra's Baar Baar Dekho, which stars Sidharth Malhotra (above left, on the film set) as the male lead


Katrina Kaif

On the pitch
Emraan Hashmi flew to London last month to begin shooting for Anthony D'Souza's biopic on ex Indian cricket captain, Mohammed Azharuddin. The actor also posted a series of tweets about his battle with London's cold weather. On his part, Azhar jetted off to London to guide Emraan during the shoot with some of the scenes slated to be filmed at the Lord's Cricket Ground, the Mecca of cricket.

Coming soon
Since Prince Charles is keen that Bollywood folk shoot in London often, more and more film units are expected to make their way to the city. As soon as Sushant Singh Rajput wraps up the Ranchi schedule of the Dhoni biopic, he will head there for the film's overseas schedule.

Earlier this year, Shah Rukh Khan shot for his upcoming film, 'Fan' at the Kings Cross Station in London. A portion of 'Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge' (1995) had been filmed at the same location.

With the success of 'Bhool Bhulaiya 3', let's revisit the greatest horror content of all times!

We've rounded up five of the most terrifying and iconic horror stories of all time. These spine-chilling stories have left lasting impressions with their eerie atmospheres, unforgettable

Thursday, November 07, 2024
Ajay Devgn and Abhishek Kapoor Unveil the First Look Poster of 'Azaad' with New Talents Aaman Devgan and Rasha Thadani!

Bollywood fans have been treated to an exciting new announcement as Ajay Devgn and renowned director Abhishek Kapoor reveal the highly anticipated first look

Wednesday, November 06, 2024
Abhishek Kapoor's Action-Packed Big Screen Spectacle Azaad Introducing Aaman Devgan and Rasha Thadani with Ajay Devgn in a powerful role - Teaser Out Now!

Since the title announcement of Azaad, anticipation has been building for Abhishek Kapoor's upcoming big-screen adventure. The exclusive teaser release in cinemas with the Diwali

Tuesday, November 05, 2024
Sharvari's stylish Diwali looks made headlines!

This Diwali 2024, Sharvari's fashion charm and style has stunned everyone. Her outfits not only brought a modern twist to traditional Indian attire but also added to the festive spirit. Take

Monday, November 04, 2024
Get Ready For High Octane Action and Entertainment with Baby John - Taster Cut Out Now!

Varun Dhawan's film Baby John has finally released its taster cut, and it's everything fans were hoping for. Directed by Kalees, Baby John is an exciting masala family entertainer filled

Monday, November 04, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT