Bollywood has long captivated audiences not just through its storytelling but also by showcasing breathtaking international locations. Hindi cinema has transformed foreign landscapes into integral parts of its narratives, evoking emotions such as longing, love, and self-discovery. From the snow-capped peaks of Switzerland to the vibrant streets of New York, Bollywood has shaped how generations of Indians envision the world beyond their borders.
Switzerland: The Heart of Bollywood Romance
A cornerstone of Bollywood’s global cinematic landscape is Switzerland, largely thanks to the visionary filmmaker Yash Chopra. His films, including Chandni and Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, immortalized this picturesque country as a symbol of romance. For Indian audiences in the 1990s, Switzerland transcended its geographical identity; it became a dream destination where love stories blossomed against a backdrop of stunning meadows and majestic mountains. Even decades later, this association endures as Switzerland continues to market itself as the “land of Bollywood romance.”
In contrast, New York represents the reality faced by the Indian diaspora. The film Kal Ho Naa Ho utilized the city’s iconic skyline to reflect the emotional complexities of immigrant life. By capturing locations such as Central Park and Brooklyn Bridge, the film depicted a fast-paced, sometimes overwhelming life filled with both loneliness and possibility.
Travel as Transformation: From Spain to Australia
As Bollywood’s relationship with travel evolved, films like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara showcased Spain not merely as a tourist attraction but as a transformative journey. The film’s road trips and vibrant festivals served as metaphors for emotional liberation, inspiring many Indian travelers to seek similar experiences. In subsequent years, Tamasha ventured to Corsica, where its rustic charm allowed characters to escape societal expectations, marking a significant shift towards introspective storytelling.
Australia has also emerged as a favoured destination in Bollywood. Cities such as Sydney and Melbourne frequently appear in films, representing independence and contemporary love. Salaam Namaste explored modern relationships in Melbourne, while Dil Chahta Hai highlighted friendship against the backdrop of Sydney’s stunning coastlines. The multicultural fabric of Australia, combined with its striking urban energy, makes it feel both foreign and familiar to Indian audiences.
New Zealand, showcased in Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai, introduced Indian viewers to its breathtaking landscapes. The film portrayed the country as a romantic escape, where majestic mountains and open skies amplified themes of love and destiny.
Global Action: Iceland, Portugal, and Beyond
As Bollywood embraced grand narratives, international locations became pivotal in action films as well. Dilwale transformed the stark beauty of Iceland into a dramatic canvas, while War featured the historic architecture of Porto, Portugal to elevate chase sequences, adding a sleek European edge to the film. Ek Tha Tiger ventured to Havana, Cuba, where the city’s faded grandeur and vintage cars created an authentic and gritty atmosphere, shifting away from the polished visuals typically associated with Bollywood.
Filmmakers have also explored lesser-known destinations, expanding the horizons of Hindi cinema. The film Drive, featuring Sushant Singh Rajput, showcased locations in Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jaffa. Similarly, Dhoom 2 surprised audiences by filming in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, long before it became a familiar cultural reference in India. The film highlighted the city’s stunning beaches and vibrant lifestyle.
In an unexpected turn, Lucky: No Time for Love, starring Salman Khan, was shot in the historic city of St. Petersburg, Russia, showcasing its stunning architecture and winter landscapes.
As Bollywood continues to evolve, the choice of international locations is becoming increasingly deliberate. Today’s audiences are well-travelled and visually discerning, seeking more than just glamorous backdrops. Filmmakers are now selecting destinations that resonate emotionally with the narrative, ensuring that each location serves a purpose beyond mere aesthetics.
Bollywood has effectively turned the world into its stage, creating a cinematic experience that transports audiences to new realms while reflecting their own aspirations and dreams. As the industry progresses, one can only speculate where it will venture next and how it will continue to influence the way audiences connect with global cultures.
