Come, shoot

A film city in the region has had many false starts. Ranch, a project spread over 350 acres in village Kathgarh, district Ropar, is another ambitious attempt in this direction.

Hobby Dhaliwal, an agriculturist, who has forayed into Punjabi films, announced the project that aims to house a film city, a seven-star hotel, farm house and more. This unique concept aims to provide everything right from a pind to club house, a haveli to lights, camera and technicians. 

“What we have in mind is one-stop solution for filmmakers, who can come over with actors and not only use space customised to their requirements, but also human resources – technicians, extras, hospitality staff and more,” shares Dhaliwal.

Interestingly, the space would be open to public who can choose to book weekend-stay of their choice – stay in a kutcha house or farmhouse or haveli or hotel with star facilities. “We aim to provide a unique experience in terms of stay and hospitality. If one chooses to dine in our haveli, there would be proper ambience, khansama in place and Mughlai cuisine - an elaborate do.”

The project is backed by Nitesh Gadvi, who backs another film studio in Ahmadabad. “I take pride in telling this that this project is going to be made in Punjab and feel overwhelmed that I have been given the responsibility of getting it executed,” says Hobby, happy at the growth of business in Punjabi movies. “We aim to reduce filmmakers’ cost and earn from the public using our space,” adds Hobby, who also mentions an adventure theme park to be added to this elaborate project.

The project is touted to start functioning from coming July and would be done in phases. — TNS