UP emerging as favourite place for Bollywood movie shoots

From legendary Guru Dutt and Waheeda Rehman-starrer "Chaudhavi Ka Chaand" to "Shatranj Ke Khilari", "Umrao Jaan" and latest being a Divya Dutta film, the art and architecture of Uttar Pradesh is fast turning into a favourite hunting ground of the tinsel world.
"All said and done UP is the home of art and architecture. The essence of culture and tradition is here," noted filmmaker Muzaffar Ali told PTI.
He said the state has the potential of emerging as a parallel centre to Mumbai in the sphere of filmmaking for producing more meaningful and relevant cinema.
He said whether it is an art form, lyrics or music, UP has always dominated Bollywood.

Ali, who has shot his upcoming venture "Jaanisaar" extensively in Lucknow, said the city has its own beauty.
The trend, which started with veteran actors and directors of the black and white era, is catching up fast with directors and producers of the new age.

"There were times when UP was projected just as a religious place. The perception has changed. With all its beauty and culture, it is becoming a fascinating place," another director said, requesting anonymity.
He said movies like "Sehar", based on real life story of mafia don Shri Prakash Shukla and Amitabh Bachchan and his son Abhishek's "Bunty Aur Babli" are examples of how UP has been attracting the cine world.

"UP has all the spots, whether it is Chambal ravine or marvel of Taj Mahal," he said.