Patiala’s Cinematic Legacy: Bollywood Films Shot in and Around the Historic City

The city of Patiala, in northern India, has not only left an indelible mark on Indian history but also on the cinematic world, serving as a backdrop for several renowned Bollywood films. Patiala, known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes, has become a popular filming location for various Indian films, capturing the essence of both the city and the rural surroundings. Let’s explore the city’s contributions to the globalized world of cinema through a selection of notable Bollywood films.

Introduction to Patiala

Patiala, founded in 1763 by Jassa Singh Dosanjh, is one of the oldest princely states. It is located in the Punjab region and is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including vast green fields, historical architecture, and elegant palaces. Patiala is a confluence of history and modernity, with its ancient palaces and temples juxtaposed with contemporary amenities and hospitality. This unique blend of the old and the new makes it an ideal filming location for Bollywood directors.

Notable Bollywood Films Shot in Patiala

1. Son of Sardar (1973)

Son of Sardar, directed by Sohrab Modi, is a classic film that depicts the life of Indian Independence leader Subhash Chandra Bose’s son, Saadat Ali Bose. The historic landmarks and lush green landscapes of Patiala played a significant role in portraying the story effectively. Scenes were filmed in the Patiala Palace and other historic locations around the city, such as the Raisina House and Gobindgarh Fort, which added a sense of grandeur and authenticity to the narrative.

2. Baatt Milkha Bhaag (2013)

Baatt Milkha Bhaag, starring Farhan Akhtar, Rinkie Khanna, and Arbaaz Khan, is a sports drama that chronicles the life of legendary athlete Milkha Singh. The film was shot in several locations in Patiala, including the local cricket grounds and the Guru Gobind Singh Sports Complex, where much of the action was set. The vibrant colors and bustling scenes of Patiala during the 1960s and 1970s were a perfect fit for the film’s timeframe.

3. Raazi (2018)

Raazi, a spy thriller starring Alia Bhatt and Aaron Eckhart, was shot in multiple locations around Patiala, including the historic Mankheri Fort and the Shalimar Gardens. The scenes filmed at these locations gave the audience a taste of the city’s rich history and culture, while also providing the necessary backdrop for the film’s intense and suspenseful narrative. The fort and gardens, with their serenity and historical significance, added to the suspense and drama of the storyline.

4. Namaste England (2009)

Namaste England, a love story starring Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan, was filmed in various locations around Patiala, including the Patiala Rural Building, which served as the backdrop for several scenes. These scenes captured the essence of rural Patiala, showcasing the beauty and charm of the countryside, which is often starkly contrasted with the urban spaces of modern India. The juxtaposition of these scenes added a layer of depth to the narrative, highlighting the film’s themes of tradition and modernity.

5. Bodyguard (2016)

Bodyguard, a nail-biting action film starring Ajay Devgn, was shot in Patiala’s historic landmarks such as the Kurnool Palace and the Patiala Fort. These locations added a sense of grandeur and drama to the film, while also providing a fitting visual backdrop for the action sequences. The blend of historical architecture and modern urban landscapes created a captivating atmosphere that added to the film’s cinematic appeal.

6. Love Aaj Kal (2009)

Love Aaj Kal, a light-hearted comedy-drama starring Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor, was also filmed in Patiala’s urban and rural landscapes. The city’s scenic locations and streets provided the perfect setting for the film’s lighthearted and romantic narrative. The film’s scenes in Patiala showcased the city’s culinary delights, cultural events, and the fascinating blend of history and modernity.

7. Dangal (2016)

Dangal, a critically acclaimed sports drama directed by Zoya Akhtar and starring Aamir Khan, was shot in several locations around Patiala, including the Gobindgarh Fort and the Patiala Palace. These historical locations added a layer of authenticity to the film, which narrates the story of a wrestling coach from Patiala and his coming-of-age journey. The fort and palace, with their grandeur and cultural significance, provided a fitting backdrop for the film’s narrative and action sequences.

Conclusion

Patiala, with its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes, has become a go-to location for Bollywood filmmakers, as evident from the many films shot there. From the grandeur of historic palaces to the charm of rural landscapes, Patiala offers a diverse range of filming locations that are perfect for filmmakers to capture the essence of the city and its surroundings. These films not only entertain and captivate audiences but also serve as a window to the cultural richness and historical significance of Patiala. As Patiala continues to be a favorite among filmmakers, the city’s cinematic legacy is bound to grow, continuing to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.