These days it seems that Bollywood masala is incomplete without the zaika of the city of Lucknow. As several directors pick the city of Nawabs to be the backdrop of their stories, it is certain that the narrow lanes of this city lead their way into the hearts of the audience. It is not difficult to fall in love with the city with its archaic buildings, its culture, people and a language that is made up of emotions, more than words. Here is a list of movies and web series that were shot and set in Lucknow and excelled in capturing the essence of the city!
Gulabo Sitabo
The attar battar and khattar pattar of this movie made a resounding mark with its audience and critics throughout. The dramatic story of a peculiar man, his impossible tenant and a dilapidated mansion will introduce you to Lucknow in a way you will never forget. The plot will make you realise that the city has a lot to teach, however, there are hardly ever straight answers found.
Bala
This tale of a balding young man from Kanpur falling in love with a self-styled Tik-Tok star from Lucknow will take you to ride full of wit and humour! Pari, played by Yami is one the most important comedic element of the movie and though her tantrums, are over the top, they suit her character! Afterall, itrana toh koi Lucknow ki ladkiyo se hi seekhe!
Jolly LLB 2
The story of an underdog wanting to right the wrong he has done in desire of a lawyer's chamber is a cinematic satire on this issues of our political system. Add the banter between a lawyer from Lucknow and a Kanpur immigrant into the mix and you will get the witty comedy with a smart and swift plot. The songs of this movie will take you on a tour to Lucknow's scenic and monumental beauty.
Raid
A political drama, the movie fights the corrupt practices in the heart of the city. This is an Ajay Devgan signature formula movie, one with a mastermind and loads of heroism. However, the song Nitt Khair Manga will take you on a virtual Lucknow darshan from the British Residency to Rumi Darwaza, Bada Imambada and Ghanta Ghar. This song can be the perfect checklist of places to visit the next time you are in the city!
Bullet Raja
The bhaukaal of Nawabs is perfectly represeted in this movie. The action movie is set against the backdrop of Uttar Pradesh and will take you on a ride of all things typically UP! (pun intended!)
Shaadi mei zaroor Aana
Shaadi Mei Zaroor Aana is a story of an Allahabad couple, the plot of which mostly revolves around the city, Lucknow. An extravagant set was designed in the town for this humble love story that turns into a revenge saga. This movie showcases a lot of new Lucknow, along with Lucknow's Gomti Riverfront.
Daawat-e-Ishq
You cannot talk about Lucknow without talking about its food. After all, the true identity of a Lucknowite is based upon where they order their biryani and kebabs from! With Tunday Kebabi and Idrees ki biryani at our service, we Lucknowites have nothing to worry about. Despite its weak plot, Daawat-e-Ishq will surely send you into a mini food coma and make you miss all the good food from the streets of Lucknow.
Rangbaaz
Not only movies, web series are also now shifting base to the rustic settings of UP. Rangbaaz is an action-crime fiction drama. With the pivotal character seeking refuge in the city, luxury hotels in the city like Clarks Awadh, Hotel Taj are used as backdrops in the show. Atal Chowk and Vidhan Sabha, in the heart of the city are also explored in this the screenplay!
A culture as fascinating as its people, is what makes this city a film story in itself! Though numerous films and shows have been shot in Lucknow till now, the excitement of watching it on the big screen with every new film, never goes down.