A new chapter of “Film Tourism” will open in Konkan – preparations underway to build a film city on 125 acres in Palshet, Guhagar.
City News Mumbai••0 views•3 min read
Mumbai, 13th (City News Mumbai Anant Nalavde)
The state government has taken steps to promote film tourism in Maharashtra's Konkan region, leveraging its natural beauty. A plan is underway to develop a “film tourism” project on approximately 125 acres of government land in Palshhet, Guhagar taluka, Ratnagiri district. Minister of Cultural Affairs Ashish Shelar has instructed the preparation of a detailed proposal for the project in partnership with the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC). He has asked for the proposal to be submitted within a month and for the exploration of financial options.
### 🎬 Shooting Facilities Will Be Available in One Place
The beaches, natural sites, and tourism prospects of the Guhagar and Dapoali areas are conducive to shooting films and serials. Marathi films and serials have already been shot in this region. However, producers face difficulties because necessary permits and shooting‑related facilities are not available in a timely manner. To address this issue, a plan is being considered to provide all necessary shooting facilities in one location. The meeting also discussed developing basic facilities required for film production by utilizing government land in Palshhet, Timaneswar, and Tavasal. Former MLA Dr. Vinay Natu offered various suggestions to encourage film production in Konkan.
### Funds Can Be Raised Through MTDC and Mhada
The meeting in the ministry chaired by Minister Ashish Shelar discussed the possibilities of developing the project through public‑private partnership (PPP). In addition to establishing a joint venture with MTDC, instructions were given to consider options for obtaining financial assistance under the film tourism scheme and to seek help from Mhada.
### Konkan's Economy and Employment Could Gain Momentum
If this project comes to fruition, the arrival of film producers, artists, and technicians to Konkan could benefit local hotels, transportation, catering, and other tourism‑related businesses. There is also a possibility of creating employment opportunities for local youth in the technical and service sectors. However, to translate these possibilities into real economic benefits, it will be important to prioritize local people, pursue environmentally friendly development, and ensure transparent management of the project.
At present, the final form of the project, financial arrangements, implementation process, and the date of commencement have not been decided. In this context, the proposal to be submitted within a month is expected to clarify these issues.
### Officials Present at the Meeting
Former MLA Dr. Vinay Natu joined the meeting via videoconferencing. The Secretary of the Department of Cultural Affairs Kiran Kulkarni, Managing Director Swati Mhashe‑Patil of Dadasaheb Falke Chitrangari, Vice President Sanjiv Jayswal of Mhada, MTDC officials, and officials from related departments were present.
