SANJAY SHARMA
HYDERABAD: A group of 14 prominent journalists from Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory, who are on tour to Hyderabad being organized by Press Information Bureau (PIB) Srinagar in collaboration with PIB Hyderabad Srinagar, on Friday embarked on an exclusive tour of the iconic Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad, the world’s largest film studio complex and a premier destination for filmmakers, tourists, and media professionals alike.
Organized by PIB Hyderabad, the tour offered a unique behind-the-scenes experience of the sprawling 1,666-acre complex, showcasing its world-class facilities, immersive film sets, and the creative marvel that has made it a hub for Indian and international cinema.
The journey began with a warm welcome by the Ramoji guide, who provided a historical overview of the studio complex, established by media mogul Ramoji Rao in 199.
Ramoji Film City’s expansive campus includes a mix of natural and man-made attractions, ranging from lush gardens, grand architecture, and elaborate movie sets to cutting-edge production facilities. Journalists were first taken to the vintage sets, where classic Bollywood films were once shot, allowing them to immerse themselves in the stories of Indian cinema’s golden era.
A guided tour took the journalists through the various theme-based sets that replicate cities, palaces, streets, and cultural sites from around the world. The journalists were especially fascinated by the “London Street” set, where detailed facades mirror the essence of British architecture, and the “Japanese Garden,” where Asian aesthetics come to life with cherry blossom trees and peaceful ponds. From ancient forts to modern cityscapes, the studio provides a versatile canvas for diverse storytelling needs.
These sets were explained in detail by experienced guides, who shared anecdotes of past film shoots, adding an engaging narrative that captured the attention of the press group.
One of the highlights of the tour was a live demonstration of film production techniques, including lighting, camera operation, and green-screen effects. Journalists were able to witness how visual effects (VFX) are incorporated into film, giving ordinary scenes a magical, cinematic quality. This interactive session shed light on the technical artistry that brings movies to life, allowing the journalists to understand the multifaceted process of filmmaking from script to screen.
The journalists were then treated to the adrenaline-filled “Action Studio,” where they observed the staging of stunt scenes and learned how action sequences are choreographed and executed. The high-energy demonstrations illustrated the precision and skill required to perform and capture complex stunts safely.
Following the studio tour, the journalists visited Eureka, Ramoji Film City’s entertainment zone, which combines theme-park attractions with cultural exhibits. The journalists enjoyed cultural performances, including dance shows and musical acts, reflecting India’s diverse cultural heritage. One of the major highlights is the Baahubali movie set, where scenes from the iconic Indian film Baahubali were shot. This set gives visitors a chance to explore the grandeur of the fictional Mahishmati Kingdom with its towering statues, temples, and battlefields, creating an immersive experience for fans.
Inspired by the architecture of Jaipur’s Hawa Mahal, this structure within the film city recreates the elegance and intricate designs reminiscent of Rajasthan’s iconic landmark. It’s a great spot for photography and for experiencing royal architectural styles up close.
Ramoji Film City also features beautifully curated gardens, including areas inspired by Japanese aesthetics. These often include Japanese-style landscapes, koi ponds, and sculptures, providing a tranquil experience.
Additionally, birds have frequently made appearances in the news, especially rare and exotic species featured within such displays, whether in natural reserves or aviaries. Ramoji’s film city also has an aviary where visitors can see colorful and exotic bird species, making it an excellent attraction for bird lovers.
Visiting Ramoji Film City is like stepping into the worlds of these films and architectural wonders, offering entertainment and insights into various cultures and creative sets.
The tour concluded with a visit to the Ramoji Film City Museum, where journalists viewed memorabilia from notable Indian films shot at the studio and learned about the studio’s journey over the years. Reflecting on their experience, several journalists expressed admiration for the infrastructure and visionary ambition behind Ramoji Film City, acknowledging its status as a cinematic landmark.
The tour not only provided an educational experience for the journalists but also highlighted Ramoji Film City’s contribution to India’s cinematic and cultural legacy. As they departed, the journalists expressed gratitude, leaving with a deeper understanding of the artistry, creativity, and hard work that fuel the world of filmmaking.