Raipur: Chhattisgarh’s long-cherished dream of becoming a major hub for film production and cultural events has taken a significant step forward. Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Deo Sai on Friday laid the foundation stone of the Chitrotpala Film City and Tribal and Cultural Convention Center at Mana–Tuta village in Raipur.
The ambitious projects aim to give new momentum to the state’s creative economy, while opening fresh opportunities for youth, artists, filmmakers, and tourism.
Film City to Give National and Global Identity to Chhattisgarh
Addressing the foundation-laying ceremony, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said that the Chitrotpala Film City will help Chhattisgarh gain a distinct identity in the national and international film industry. He said the project will not only promote film production but also strengthen the state’s cultural presence on the global stage.
The Chief Minister added that local talent will get a platform to showcase their skills, and filmmakers will have access to modern technical facilities at one location.
₹150 Crore Project Spread Over 100 Acres
The Chitrotpala Film City and Tribal and Cultural Convention Center will be developed over nearly 100 acres at an estimated cost of ₹150 crore.
Under the Government of India’s scheme “Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment – Development of Global Iconic Tourist Centers”, financial approval has been granted for both projects:
- ₹95.79 crore for Chitrotpala Film City
- ₹52.03 crore for the Tribal and Cultural Convention Center
The projects will be implemented under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with the possibility of ₹300 crore additional private investment. The target is to complete both projects within two years.
Major Boost for Youth, Artists and Employment
CM Sai said the project will be a turning point for actors, technicians, directors, and creative professionals in the state. Thousands of local artists will benefit from new employment and training opportunities.
He thanked the Central Government for its support and said that under the double-engine government, artists and cultural heritage are receiving due recognition.
Four Major Proposals Received on the Day of Bhoomi Pujan
On the occasion of the foundation ceremony, the Tourism Department received four important proposals, which were presented to the Chief Minister:
- Producer Anil Sharma (Gadar fame) proposed to shoot his upcoming film at Chitrotpala Film City
- India Exposition Mart Ltd. Chairman Rakesh Kumar proposed an International Exhibition Center and Trade Mart at the convention center
- EPCH Chairman Neeraj Khanna proposed a World-Class Handicrafts and Gift Fair
- AT Films Hollywood’s Ashutosh Vajpayee proposed bringing Hollywood films and streaming content to the film city
These proposals reflect strong national and international interest in the project.
World-Class Infrastructure Planned at Film City
The Chitrotpala Film City will feature a wide range of permanent shooting sets, including:
- Village, city and street sets
- Airport and railway station sets
- Jail, police station, schools and colleges
- Temples and public spaces
- Sculpture garden, shopping street and production offices
- Studios, administrative buildings and parking
For tourists, facilities like toy museum, snow world, hotel, restaurant, multiplex and experience center will also be developed.
Modern Tribal and Cultural Convention Center
The Tribal and Cultural Convention Center will include a 1,500-seater modern convention hall with facilities such as:
- Conference and meeting halls
- Banquet halls and restaurants
- Guest rooms, gym and library
- Swimming pool and administrative block
The center will host cultural programs, exhibitions, conferences and international events.
Film Tourism and Cultural Events to Get New Strength
In recent years, films and web series like Newton, Jahanabad, Kaun Praveen Tambe, The Great Indian Murder, and Gram Chikitsalay have been shot in Chhattisgarh, highlighting its strong film tourism potential.
With the completion of these projects, the state will see growth in film shoots, festivals, award shows, and entertainment events. This will also promote tourism destinations of Chhattisgarh at national and international levels.
Dignitaries Present at the Ceremony
Several senior leaders and officials were present at the event, including:
- Forest Minister Mr. Kedar Kashyap
- MP Mr. Brijmohan Agrawal
- MLAs Anuj Sharma and Indra Kumar Sahu
- Chhattisgarh Film Development Corporation Chairperson Ms. Mona Sen
- Chhattisgarh Tourism Board Chairman Mr. Neelu Sharma
- District Panchayat President Mr. Naveen Agrawal
- Tourism Secretary Dr. Rohit Yadav
