Reviving the Streets of Mumbai: A Glimpse into Bollywood’s Rare On-Location Filming and Akshay Kumar’s Latest Projects
Once upon a time, Mumbai’s bustling streets served as the vibrant backdrop for numerous Bollywood films, capturing the essence of the city’s lively spirit and diverse landscapes. However, in recent years, the trend of shooting extensively on Mumbai’s streets has waned, giving way to more controlled studio environments and digital backdrops. Despite this shift, certain filmmakers and actors continue to prioritize authentic street scenes, recognizing their power to elevate storytelling and connect with audiences on a visceral level. Among them, Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar is making headlines for his recent on-location shoot for his upcoming film, Haiwaan, which not only rekindles this tradition but also showcases the enduring charm of Mumbai’s iconic locales.
Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan Set the Streets Ablaze with Action-Packed Filming
Filming in the Heart of South Mumbai
Sources from Mumbai’s bustling film industry reveal that Akshay Kumar, along with his co-star Saif Ali Khan, spent nearly five days filming in key areas of South Mumbai—specifically outside the historic Churchgate railway station and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. These locations are not only central to Mumbai’s geography but also steeped in cultural and architectural significance, making them ideal for capturing the vibrant essence of the city on the big screen.
An article published by Mid-Day detailed the grandeur of the shoot, highlighting an elaborate action sequence that involved a high-stakes cat-and-mouse chase. This scene was meticulously choreographed to include 30 to 40 cars and over 100 junior artistes, transforming the streets into a dynamic set piece reminiscent of classic Bollywood action sequences. The filming spanned five consecutive nights, with action director Stunt Silva leading the choreography to ensure seamless execution of the complex stunt scenes.
Behind the Scenes Insights and Actor Cooperation
Priyadarshan, the film’s director, provided insights into the shooting process, praising the professionalism and cooperation of both actors. He remarked, “Both Saif and Akshay knew precisely how the sequence had to be shot, and they worked together harmoniously. Though Akshay is known to sleep early, he stayed committed to the demanding schedule.” The dedication of the cast and crew underscores Bollywood’s ongoing commitment to authentic storytelling and on-location shooting, even amidst recent industry trends favoring studio-bound productions.
Akshay Kumar has already completed his portions of Haiwaan and has since headed to Dubai to begin work on Welcome To The Jungle. Meanwhile, Priyadarshan revealed that besides the iconic South Mumbai locations, filming also took place in the Bandra Kurla Complex, a modern commercial hub that adds a contemporary touch to the film’s urban landscape. Despite wrapping up his scenes, the veteran director shared that there are still nine days of shooting left with Saif Ali Khan, promising fans more exciting sequences to anticipate.
Stars Sharing Their Experiences and Celebrating the Filming Journey
Shriya Pilgaonkar Joins the Celebrations
Adding to the excitement, actress Shriya Pilgaonkar recently took to Instagram to share her experience working on Haiwaan. In a heartfelt post, she posted a photo with Priyadarshan, expressing her gratitude and pride in being part of the project. “An absolute privilege to work with this stellar team led by Priyadarshan sir,” she wrote, highlighting the collaborative spirit that defines Bollywood’s filmmaking culture.
Returning to Mumbai’s Streets: A Rare Sight in Recent Years
It’s worth noting that Akshay Kumar’s recent street filming in Mumbai marks a significant return to on-location shooting reminiscent of his 2014 blockbuster Holiday – A Soldier Is Never Off Duty. During its tenth anniversary, Vipul Shah, the film’s producer, reminisced about the logistical challenges and meticulous planning involved in shooting scenes on Mumbai’s streets. He explained how the production team employed around sixteen hidden cameras and carefully marked the filming path to capture crucial shots without causing chaos or attracting crowds.
“Akshay used to wait at the Gaiety-Galaxy parking lot, knowing exactly where to walk and what to do,” Vipul Shah recalled. “We aimed to complete each shot in a single take to avoid delays, as retakes would only be possible after several hours. Thankfully, we managed to get all our scenes in the first take, thanks to the detailed planning and the professionalism of the entire team.”
The Significance of On-Location Filming in Bollywood’s Legacy
Filming on Mumbai streets has historically been a hallmark of Bollywood’s storytelling, capturing the city’s vibrant energy and diverse neighborhoods. These locations have served as more than just backdrops—they are characters in their own right, embodying the spirit of the stories being told. When actors like Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan shoot on these streets, it’s a testament to the industry’s reverence for authentic settings and the desire to create films that resonate deeply with local audiences and international viewers alike.
Challenges and Rewards of Filming in Mumbai
While shooting on Mumbai streets presents logistical challenges—such as managing crowds, ensuring safety, and coordinating permits—the rewards are immense. Authentic street scenes add a layer of realism that CGI and studio sets often cannot replicate. Moreover, such films often generate buzz among local communities, boosting tourism and fostering a sense of pride among residents.
Future Outlook: The Resurgence of Mumbai’s Streets in Bollywood Cinema
As Bollywood continues to evolve, there is a renewed interest in blending traditional storytelling techniques with modern filmmaking technologies. Akshay Kumar’s recent on-location shoots symbolize this trend, emphasizing the importance of authentic visuals and real-world settings. Industry insiders believe that this revival could inspire more filmmakers to embrace Mumbai’s streets, not just for blockbuster action sequences but also for intimate dramas that capture the city’s heartbeat.
In addition, upcoming projects like Welcome To The Jungle and other big-ticket films may further showcase Mumbai’s iconic locales, reminding audiences of the city’s cinematic legacy. With stars like Akshay Kumar leading the charge, Bollywood is poised to rediscover and celebrate its roots, creating films that are both visually stunning and culturally resonant.
Conclusion
Bollywood’s rich history of shooting on Mumbai’s streets is a testament to the city’s vital role in shaping Indian cinema’s identity. Akshay Kumar’s recent filming for Haiwaan not only highlights his commitment to authentic storytelling but also signifies a broader industry trend of returning to the city’s vibrant locales. As filmmakers continue to blend tradition with innovation, Mumbai remains an enduring muse, inspiring a new generation of Bollywood movies that honor the city’s cinematic legacy while captivating audiences worldwide.
