In a bid to boost global tourism, the Uttar Pradesh government will produce high-quality anamorphic short films showcasing the state's rich cultural and historical heritage. As part of this initiative, 12 key tourist circuits including the Ramayana, Krishna-Braj, Buddhist, and Freedom Struggle circuits, will be showcased through captivating two-minute films crafted with high visual appeal.

Anamorphic filmmaking differs from normal short films mainly in how it captures and presents visuals. It uses special lenses to squeeze wide images onto standard film or digital sensors, which are later stretched back to achieve a cinematic widescreen look with distinctive visual effects. This includes horizontal lens flares and oval bokeh.

In contrast, most short films use spherical lenses that capture images as-is, typically in a standard 16:9 aspect ratio. Anamorphic requires more specialised equipment and post-production, making it costlier but ideal for a dramatic, immersive feel, while regular short films are simpler and more budget-friendly to produce.

Each film will highlight six circuits and be produced using high-end anamorphic technology to ensure a cinematic experience. To reach global audiences, the films will be dubbed in 10 foreign languages such as French, Spanish, German, Italian, Russian, Portuguese, Arabic, Thai, Japanese and Korean. The selected agency will handle everything, from scripting to editing and voiceover, with a strict 120-day deadline.

UP Tourism Minister said the project aims to boost tourism, attract international attention, and create new economic and employment opportunities in the state.