Goa: The Bihar State Film Development and Finance Corporation pavilion at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa became a vibrant center of activity on Thursday, attracting filmmakers, producers, and investors eager to discover opportunities within the state’s growing film industry. The pavilion was officially launched at the Webs Film Bazaar, featuring key officials and notable industry figures, including Pranav Kumar, Secretary of the Arts, Culture and Youth Department and Managing Director of Bihar Film Corporation; Ruby, General Manager of Bihar Film Corporation; actors Manoj Joshi, Darshan Kumar, Neetu Chandra, and Vikas Kumar; IMPA Chairman Abhay Sinha; producer Sagar Srivastava; and director Rao Devendra Singh.
Kumar emphasized the state’s efforts to draw filmmakers, including financial incentives for films shot in Bihar and a streamlined process for shooting permits. “Bihar has tremendous potential in arts and culture, and engagement in events like IFFI enhances the state’s national and international reputation,” he stated. Actors and filmmakers praised the picturesque landscapes and welcoming local communities. Manoj Joshi characterized Bihar as “perfect for photography,” mentioning that the state’s cultural and historical significance, particularly its ties to the Maurya Empire, makes it an appealing location for filmmakers. Darshan Kumar shared his experience of filming for 40 days in Balkami Nagar, commending the natural beauty and the hospitality of locals who provided homemade eggs and cow milk.
He expressed his desire to film all his upcoming projects in Bihar. Neetu Chandra stressed the need to promote films in Bihar’s regional languages like Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Magahi, asserting that fostering local content is vital for industry growth. Vikas Kumar announced plans to film in Bihar next year and discussed potential projects with Pranav Kumar. Producers and directors present at the pavilion echoed these views. Sagar Srivastava referred to filming in Bihar as “repaying a debt to one’s motherland,” while Rao Devendra Singh highlighted the state’s variety of stories and locations suited for films across genres.
Ruby noted that the increase in film production is creating jobs and attracting investment, while IMPA Chairman Abhay Sinha encouraged fellow producers to consider shooting in Bihar in light of the new film policy. Conversations with OTT platforms suggested future collaborations. Pranav Kumar met with representatives from Stage to explore smooth release options for films produced in Bihar. Parmita Munshi, director of the Bengali film Ami Jokhon, has pledged to produce a suspense thriller web series in Bihar next January. Aseem Sinha, a renowned editor and FTII alumnus who visited the pavilion, remarked that the resurgence of filming in Bihar is opening new opportunities for editors, sound designers, and cinematographers behind the scenes.