The Bangladeshi film industry has witnessed an unexpected start to the new year. Several high-profile productions, initially slated to commence shooting in India this January, have been relocated to Sri Lanka. Notable among these are Shakib Khan’s upcoming film Prince and Siam Ahmed’s Rakshas.
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Reasons Behind the Shift
The relocation comes amid logistical and administrative challenges that have recently emerged between Bangladesh and India. Although the original plan involved filming across multiple Indian cities—including Kolkata, Mumbai, and Hyderabad—producers faced complications concerning visas, travel arrangements, and local bureaucratic procedures. These obstacles prompted filmmakers to seek a safer and more convenient alternative, with Sri Lanka emerging as the preferred destination.
Director Mehedi Hasan Hridoy, at the helm of Rakshas, told Indian media, “My team and I have already arrived in Sri Lanka. While Bangladesh and India share long-standing cultural and economic ties, we encountered temporary challenges. Sri Lanka proved to be an effective alternative.” He emphasised that sporting or cricket-related matters did not influence the decision in any way.
Shooting Schedule
| Film Title | Lead Actor | Lead Actress | Current Shooting Location | Expected Start Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prince | Shakib Khan | Jyotirmoyee Kundu | Sri Lanka | 15 January 2026 |
| Rakshas | Siam Ahmed | Susmita Chattopadhyay | Sri Lanka | Already commenced |
Directors’ Perspective
Hridoy added, “We had scouted Sri Lanka from the beginning, considering the possibility of shooting in multiple countries. Fortunately, the conditions there have been highly favourable.” Similarly, Abu Hayat Mahmud, director of Prince, noted, “All preparations for the shoot have been completed, and we are hopeful that filming will begin next week.”
Advantages of Sri Lanka
Filming in Sri Lanka offers several benefits: a safe and stable environment, strong technical support, and landscapes that bear resemblance to various Indian cities. In addition, the co-operation of local authorities and the absence of internal disruptions have created an optimal environment for production.
Looking Ahead
This strategic move signals a new chapter for Dhallywood. With geographical convenience, safety, and technical resources on offer, Sri Lanka is increasingly emerging as a fresh hub for Bangladeshi cinema, opening up new opportunities for filmmakers seeking smooth, uninterrupted production schedules abroad.