Three Bollywood Films to Be Made in UK from 2026: What This Means for Indian Cinema

Mumbai / London, October 8, 2025 — In a landmark announcement, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared that three Bollywood films will be produced in the United Kingdom starting in early 2026, signaling a renewed era of Indo-British film collaboration.

During his two-day visit to India, Starmer visited Yash Raj Studios in Mumbai alongside British film delegation members from the British Film Institute, Pinewood Studios, Elstree Studios, and others. The proposed arrangement aims to leverage the UK’s advanced studio infrastructure and scenic locations while strengthening cultural ties under a recent trade deal.

According to the official release from the UK government, the three Bollywood projects are expected to generate over 3,000 jobs across the UK film ecosystem. Yash Raj Films (YRF), India’s eminent production house, confirmed intention to locate substantial portions of their upcoming productions across British locales.

Strategic & Economic Impact

The move is seen as a creative complement to the UK-India Comprehensive Economic & Trade Agreement (CETA), reinforcing cultural exports as part of economic diplomacy. The UK’s film industry is projected to benefit through hiring local crews, set construction contracts, location hosting, VFX outsourcing, and hospitality spends by Indian film units.

For Indian cinema, filming abroad often brings technical upgrades, variety in visuals, and international exposure. However, the choice of UK continues a cycle seen over past decades, though Indian shoots in the UK were rare in recent years. This deal marks a return after an eight-year hiatus.

Challenges & Considerations Ahead

While the plan is ambitious, several logistical and creative challenges loom. Visas, equipment import duties, weather constraints, and language of filming are factors that Indian producers will need to coordinate with their British counterparts. Ensuring that the Indian creative voice stays strong even while shooting in foreign settings will be vital to avoid superficial “exoticization.”

Some critics warn that such external collaborations should not sideline regional cinema or lower investment back home. The cost of overseas shoots is high, and safeguards may be needed to ensure Indian film crews and technicians benefit rather than lose out.

What the Industry Says

Yash Raj Films, a name long synonymous with large-scale Bollywood ventures, is centrally involved in this move. Insider reports suggest YRF is in talks about three flagship films aligned with the deal. Producers Guild of India and other stakeholders are likely watching closely, as success here could set a template for further cross-border film production.

UK officials hope the collaboration will also push British studios and post-production houses to gain more global clients, especially from the Indian film and OTT sectors.

Bottom Line

This announcement represents more than just filming in a new locale — it reflects evolving cultural diplomacy, the globalization of Indian cinema, and the ambition of Indian filmmakers to explore beyond home terrains. If executed well, it can strengthen technical exchange, open new markets, and set a precedent for greater cross-industry collaboration. The coming months will reveal which genres, stars, and production scales are chosen, and how audiences at home and abroad receive them.

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SRESTHA ROY - AUTHOR

Srestha is a film writer who explores cinema through sharp reviews, insightful news, and in-depth features. From the magic of the big screen to behind-the- scenes stories, she brings readers closer to the art and industry of film.