Jaiswal, Ghai discuss plans for world class film city in Ramtek

Nagpur: Ramtek MLA and minister of state Ashish Jaiswal met filmmaker Subhash Ghai on Friday to discuss plans for a world-class film city at Ramtek, with Ghai expected to visit the site in June for an on-ground assessment.Jaiswal described the discussions as "very positive". The project is built around a three-part concept — Film City, Education City, and Entertainment City — which Jaiswal said would be a first-of-its-kind initiative in the country. Ghai's family members, technical team, and domain experts were present.The proposal includes advanced filming infrastructure, state-of-the-art technology, and facilities tailored for OTT production. A major training centre is also planned, envisioned to be larger than Whistling Woods International, Ghai's film institute in Mumbai. Jaiswal said the project would create employment opportunities and provide a platform for local talent.CM Devendra Fadnavis had earlier announced, in the state budget, the development of Maharashtra's third film city near Navargaon in Ramtek on around 60 acres. The project forms part of Phase II of the Ramtek Development Plan, aimed at boosting tourism infrastructure while preserving the region's heritage.The initiative is also linked to Ramtek's association with classical Sanskrit poet Kalidasa, whose work Meghdootam is believed to be inspired by the region. Fadnavis had proposed that filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali create a film on Kalidasa set in Ramtek to highlight its cultural legacy and attract visitors — an idea earlier discussed at the Advantage Vidarbha event by Jaiswal.Officials said the project is expected to position Ramtek as a hub for film production and heritage tourism in Maharashtra.