Locations of Indian TV Serials Sets: From Mumbai’s Film City to Remote Cinematic Landscapes

Indian TV serials enjoy a rich diversity of filming locations, from bustling metropolitan studios to picturesque outdoor landscapes. This article explores these locations, highlighting the differences between Mumbai, other regional filming sites, and the more specialized Navi Mumbai Film City.

Production in Mumbai and Film City

Mumbai, often referred to as the heart of the Indian film industry, Bollywood, is the primary hub for the production of Indian TV serials. Various production houses and studios are found here, creating a bustling environment for the filming and post-production of numerous serials. Film City in Goregaon, Mumbai, is a specifically designed location for film and television production. It offers multiple sets, studios, and outdoor locations, providing a comprehensive environment for the creation of high-quality content.

Many TV serials are produced here, starting with everyday-life dramas, Saas Bahu series, comedies, and reality shows. These are typically filmed in various film studios within the city. However, for cultural and historical sequences, some scenes are shot in Jaipur, Udaipur, or Varanasi.

Set Design in Mumbai

Indian TV serials are known for their intricate set designs, built in studios to replicate realistic environments. These sets cover homes, villages, and urban areas, allowing for controlled shooting conditions. This is particularly crucial for serials like mythological and historical dramas, where authenticity is key.

For example, many scenes from Lost in Romayana were filmed on location, but the main sets and production were done within the confines of Mumbai. This helps in maintaining a consistent quality and allows for better post-production enhancements.

Navi Mumbai’s Film City

The statement that all sets and shoots happen at Navi Mumbai Film City is an oversimplification. While Navi Mumbai does have its own significant studio, it is not the only location for TV serials. Here are the key points that contradict this claim:

Partial Production: The majority of serials produced in Mumbai are still filmed in the traditional locations, with Mumbai's Film City serving as a primary base. However, not all scenes are filmed here. Outdoor Locations: Outdoor sets play a crucial role in enhancing the authenticity of the content. For instance, sequences set in markets or temples are captured in their original settings. Historical and Mythological Series: For historical or mythological series, the choice of location depends on the setting. While these can be filmed in Navi Mumbai, cities like Rajasthan, with its rich historical and cultural heritage, also play a significant role.

For instance, the TV series set in historical backgrounds like Ramayana or Mahabharata might utilize both Navi Mumbai's Film City for the main sets and outdoor locations like Jodhpur or Varanasi for specific scenes. This dual approach ensures that while production efficiency is maintained, the authenticity of the content is not compromised.

Thus, while Navi Mumbai’s Film City is a significant location for partial production and sets, it is one among many locations contributing to the diverse backgrounds and settings found in Indian TV serials.