In a surprising revelation, acclaimed director Aditya Dhar has disclosed that the sprawling, meticulously detailed set replicating Karachi's Lyari neighborhood for his upcoming film 'Dhurandhar' was not constructed in India, but built from scratch in Bangkok, Thailand. This major production detail sheds light on the extensive efforts undertaken to achieve geographical and cultural authenticity for the high-profile project starring Ranveer Singh.
The Bangkok Backdrop for a Karachi Story
Aditya Dhar, who shot to fame with the blockbuster 'Uri: The Surgical Strike', is leaving no stone unturned for his next venture. The film, a gritty action thriller, required a convincing replica of Lyari, a historic and densely populated locality in Karachi, Pakistan. Instead of building the set in India, the production team chose Bangkok as their canvas.
The decision was driven by a combination of logistical feasibility and the desire for creative control. Bangkok offered the necessary studio space and infrastructure to create a large-scale, permanent set that could withstand a lengthy shooting schedule. This allowed the art department to recreate the narrow lanes, specific architecture, and the distinct atmosphere of Lyari with immense detail, something that might have been challenging to achieve on location in another country or within India.
Ranveer Singh's Immersive Preparation
The report confirms that lead actor Ranveer Singh has already completed a significant portion of the film's shooting on this Bangkok set. Known for his immersive approach to roles, Singh is said to have fully embraced the environment. His character is central to the narrative, which is inspired by true events and revolves around a compelling, real-life story from the region.
While the exact plot details are under wraps, the setting of Lyari is crucial. By building such an authentic environment, Dhar aims to ground the film's high-octane action and drama in a palpable sense of place, making the story more impactful for the audience.
A New Trend in Bollywood Production Design?
This move highlights a growing trend in Indian cinema where filmmakers are looking beyond domestic borders to find the perfect locations or build sets that serve their vision. International studios often provide the scale, expertise, and sometimes the economic flexibility needed for such ambitious projects.
The revelation about the Bangkok set also underscores the film's substantial budget and the producers' commitment to quality. Aditya Dhar's partnership with producer Ronnie Screwvala is known for backing content-driven cinema with high production values, and 'Dhurandhar' appears to be following that ethos.
With a major shooting schedule already wrapped up, the team's focus on creating an authentic world for the story is clear. The decision to build Lyari in Bangkok stands as a testament to the evolving and globalized nature of Bollywood filmmaking, where the pursuit of authenticity can lead to unexpected and innovative production journeys.
