Lucknow is a city long connected to the roots of cinema and has produced famed actors and actresses, eminent theatre doyens, and so on. The thespian culture in the city has been prosperous for decades now and it is only growing upon aspiring artistes more and more by the passing day.
So, we’re here to remind you how the architectural landmarks and the culture continue to attract filmmakers. Not to forget, the government offers subsidies for films shot in Lucknow, only adding to the fascination. While the list of movies shot in the city of Nawabs is a long one, here are some of them you might or might not know of!
Umrao Jaan (1981)
The tryst between the city of Nawabs and cinema has been a romantic one since age immemorial. Predominantly shot in Lucknow, with certain parts in Malihabad and Faizabad, Umrao Jaan is one such ageless film where the cultural backdrops still leave its spectators awed.
Anwar (2007)
If you still find yourself in a trance whenever you hear the timeless song that is ‘Maula Mere Maula‘, you’ll remember the film Anwar it was from. Some of its beautiful scenes, too, take place in Lucknow, Kakori, and Bakshi Ka Talab.
Shaadi Me Zaroor Aana (2017)
Yet another typical desi romance with cutesy twists, Shaadi Me Zaroor Aana had some segments set in the Uttar Pradesh capital, including the jogging and baraat scenes.
Article 15 (2019)
The hard-hitting social drama, Article 15, set in the heart of Lucknow, sheds light on crucial societal issues, like caste-based discrimination and related crimes in rural India.
Gadar series (2001, 2023)
Both action and rolling cameras seem to adore Lucknow! The films, Gadar: Ek Prem Katha (2001) and Gadar 2 (2023) have both been extensively shot in the city. Did you know that what is shown as Pakistan’s Lahore in the former film is Lucknow’s La Martiniere College?
Jolly LLB 2 (2017)
Based in Lucknow, Jolly LLB 2 is a testament to the beauty of the city and its numerous offerings to the film industry. Various Lucknow locations graced the movie, including Ambedkar Park and Residency.
The Kargil Girl (2020)
Inspired by the real-life Indian Air Force fighter pilot Gunjan Saxena, The Kargil Girl is one empowering film for women across the globe. Born in Lucknow, Saxena is one of the first females to fly in a combat zone. The film was mainly shot in the city to build the base.
Bala (2019)
Shot in Lucknow, Kanpur, and Mumbai, the satirical dark comedy film Bala created a stir in the industry with its social messages, splendid direction, and writing.
Shatranj Ke Khiladi (1977)
Who wouldn’t know of this immortal Satyajit Ray classic that displays the rich Bada Imambara of Lucknow as its background? Set in Oudh, Shatranj Ke Khiladi effortlessly captured the essence of the city of Nawabs.
Behen Hogi Teri (2017)
Some of the scenes of the Rajkumar Rao-Shruti Hassan starrer Behen Hogi Teri, a romantic comedy, showcased the dense yet calm fog of the Lucknow winters.
Jabariya Jodi (2019)
Heart-throbs Siddharth Malhotra and Parineeti Chopra starred in the fun romantic film Jabariya Jodi which was predominantly shot in Lucknow, Barabanki, and Raebareli.
Gulabo Sitabo (2020)
If you’re a true-blue Lucknowite, you can’t miss the Old Lucknow stills from this film. From the haveli to the gateway, and church to the roads, Gulabo Sitabo elegantly and intricately captures the ancient architectural spirit of the city.
Bareilly Ki Barfi (2017)
One sweet love story that unfolds against the scenic backdrop of Lucknow,
Bareilly Ki Barfi also features a famous kila on the outskirts, Patrakarpuram, and Narhi-turned-Bareilly!
Vikram Vedha (2022)
Yet again, Vikram Vedha‘s shooting took place in the Uttar Pradesh capital, besides UAE. The action thriller dark film won the hearts of critics and fans alike!
Chaudhvin Ka Chand (1960)
Dating to as early as the 60s, Lucknow managed to entice veterans on the silver screen when the film Chaudhvin Ka Chand was set in the city.
Mission Majnu (2023)
This espionage thriller, Mission Majnu, also features Lucknow doubling as Pakistan. Parts of Hazratganj, La Martiniere, and numerous roads feature in the film. Directed by Shantanu Bagchi, this biographical war drama was inspired by the true events of the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.
Lucknow Central (2017)
This eponymous prison drama unfolds against the backdrop of Lucknow, showcasing its unique blend of culture and modernity. The thriller Lucknow Central, with its soulful music, is based on a real story and has done a brilliant portrayal of the same.
Raat Akeli Hai (2020)
Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Radhika Apte shine in this gripping crime thriller that captures the essence of Lucknow. Raat Akeli Hai has been shot extensively in Lucknow especially covering Qaiserbagh.
Shot in Lucknow, THESE 5 short films carry soulful depictions of LGBTQIA+ folks from UP!
