Suniel Shetty meets CM to plan long-duration shoot in Bihar
Bollywood actor-producer Suniel Shetty met Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary in Patna on Monday to discuss arrangements for a forthcoming film production that is scheduled to begin in October 2026 and run for about 50–60 days. Officials said the talks focused on logistics, location scouting and the implementation of recently notified state film policies aimed at drawing film-makers to Bihar.
The production team has already been conducting location surveys in Patna and Sitamarhi as part of preparations for a film reportedly based on real-life events. The meeting brought together representatives from the actor's team and various state departments to map out permissions, security, traffic management and other logistical needs that a shoot of this duration would require.
"We held a meeting with the entire department. We want to come here for a shoot. Since new film-related policies have been introduced and Bihar is emerging as a major destination for filming, we came to discuss the logistics of a shoot that will span about 50 to 60 days," Shetty said.
Shetty also commended the Chief Minister's outlook towards industrial and cultural development, saying the administration's supportive stance was an encouraging factor for bringing film projects to the state. The actor was last seen in Welcome To The Jungle and is reported to be part of the cast for Hera Pheri 3.
Economic and administrative implications
Officials involved in the talks highlighted several practical considerations that will shape the production schedule and ground arrangements. With a shoot of nearly two months, planners must coordinate extensively with municipal bodies and state departments to minimise disruption and ensure local workforce participation.
- Location permissions and clearances from local authorities for Patna and Sitamarhi
- Coordination with law-and-order agencies for crowd and traffic management
- Engagement of local technicians, artisans and support staff wherever possible
- Accommodation and transport arrangements for cast and crew during the shoot period
State officials have been promoting Bihar's new film policy as a means to generate employment, boost local services and showcase locations. Bringing a recognised industry name like Shetty's production house is likely to spotlight the policy's intent to lure inward investment in creative industries.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Planned shoot duration | 50–60 days |
| Planned start | October 2026 |
| Principal locations under consideration | Patna, Sitamarhi |
Local impact and expectations
Film shoots have the potential to provide short-term livelihood opportunities for local labour, craftspersons, caterers, transporters and small businesses. Officials said they expect procurement of services locally wherever feasible, which can benefit hospitality and allied sectors in the chosen locations.
However, long shoots require detailed advance planning to address traffic diversions, public inconvenience and the protection of public property. Authorities will need to finalise hoarding rules, location insurance cover and mechanisms for grievance redressal for residents affected by the shoot schedule.
So far, the public information released by the actor and the Chief Minister's office focuses on logistical collaboration and the state's broader ambition to position itself as a film-friendly destination. No production budget, cast list beyond mentions of Shetty, or exact shooting itinerary has been shared officially.
As Bihar positions itself to attract more film work under its new policies, the forthcoming production will serve as an early test of the state's ability to host extended shoots without major disruption to urban life. Officials said they will announce detailed permissions and protocols closer to the confirmed start date.
The meeting in Patna underlined the active role state administrations can play in facilitating cultural ventures, while also highlighting the administrative preparation required to turn policy announcements into on-ground projects that deliver local economic benefits.
