Hansal Mehta on 'Pralay' shoot at Azad Maidan: 'Mumbai has become most unfriendly city to shoot'

Hansal Mehta, the director behind the upcoming series 'Pralay', told reporters that his team secured every required permission before commencing filming at Azad Maidan in Mumbai. The location, a historic public ground, was chosen for its open space and symbolic relevance to the story's themes. Mehta explained that the production team followed standard procedures, submitting detailed plans to municipal authorities and obtaining clearance from the police and local civic bodies.

Despite the paperwork, the Mumbai Cricket Association raised objections, citing concerns about potential damage to the grounds and disruption to scheduled sports activities. The association's stance forced the crew to negotiate additional safeguards, such as protective coverings for the turf and limits on equipment placement. Mehta expressed frustration, noting that similar negotiations in other Indian cities have been smoother, and suggested that the growing bureaucracy is making Mumbai less attractive for large‑scale shoots.

Mehta's comments reflect a broader sentiment among filmmakers who feel that administrative hurdles and competing interests are limiting creative work in the city. The film industry has traditionally relied on Mumbai's infrastructure and talent pool, but recent reports indicate that delays in approvals and rising costs are prompting some producers to explore alternative locations. The director hopes that a dialogue between the entertainment sector and civic authorities will lead to clearer guidelines and a more supportive environment for future projects.