Akshay Kumar and Raashii Khanna Bring Bollywood Magic to Mussoorie
Akshay Kumar and Raashii Khanna spotted filming a song for Anees Bazmee's comedy in Mussoorie and Landour.
The scenic hills of Uttarakhand have turned into a glamorous film set as Akshay Kumar and Raashii Khanna were spotted shooting for their upcoming movie in Mussoorie and the picturesque Landour area on Friday. The duo, who are collaborating for the first time on the big screen, have brought a wave of excitement to the local residents and tourists alike.
A Musical Comedy in the Making
Reports indicate that the stars are currently filming a song for an upcoming comedy directed by Anees Bazmee. Photos shared by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) Uttarakhand captured the chemistry between the lead pair, showing Akshay Kumar strolling through the local market with Raashii Khanna. In another striking visual, the 'Khiladi' of Bollywood was seen riding a bike across a bridge, adding a touch of adventure to the shoot.
Uttarakhand: The New Hub for Cinema
It isn't just Akshay Kumar making headlines in the state. Uttarakhand is currently witnessing a surge in major film projects. While the Mussoorie and Landour areas host the Anees Bazmee project, actress Janhvi Kapoor is reportedly shooting for a separate project in Nainital.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has highlighted that the state's natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage make it an ideal location for filmmakers. The government is actively pushing to brand Uttarakhand as a film-friendly destination to boost tourism and stimulate the local economy.
Boosting Local Economy and Tourism
According to the Chief Minister, the influx of film crews does more than just showcase the state's beauty on screen; it creates tangible opportunities for the local population. The benefits extend to:
- Employment: New jobs for local youth, artists, and technicians.
- Hospitality: Increased business for hoteliers and transport operators.
- Visibility: Popularizing hidden tourist gems through cinematic lenses.
Simplifying the Process: Uttarakhand Film Policy 2024
To ensure that filmmakers continue to choose the state, the government has implemented the Uttarakhand Film Policy 2024. A key feature of this policy is the introduction of a single-window clearance system designed to remove bureaucratic hurdles. Under this new procedure, shooting permissions are now facilitated within just seven days, allowing production houses to coordinate swiftly with various government departments.
Akshay's Recent Journey
This new comedy project comes at an interesting time for Akshay Kumar. He was last seen in the film 'Haiwaan', directed by Priyadarshan and co-starring Saif Ali Khan. However, that venture failed to make a mark at the box office, making fans eager to see if this new collaboration with Raashii Khanna and Anees Bazmee will bring back the laughter and the numbers.