14 May,2025 07:26 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Films shot in Turkey
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has appealed to Indian film producers to reconsider choosing Turkey as a shooting destination, citing Turkey's growing support for Pakistan on matters affecting India's national interests. Following Turkey's support to Pakistan in attacks against India, FWICE has adhere to its belief of "Nation Comes first".FWICE has always stood firm in its belief that "Nation Comes First."
In the past some of the big Bollywood projects have shot in Turkey which has boosted the country's tourism prompting several Indians to consider Turkey as a travel option.
Here are some of the Bollywood films that were shot in Turkey:
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Ek Tha Tiger (2013)- Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif-starrer directed by Kabir Khan had some elaborate chase sequences in Istanbul and showed the beauty of the country.
Race 2 (2015)- The lavish heist film starring Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, John Abraham, Jacqueliene Fernandes also had some sequences shot in Turkey.
Baby (2015)- This Akshay Kumar thriller used Istanbul's urban setting for its intense spy narrative. Several action scenes were filmed in Turkish alleys and markets.
Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani (2009)- Some of the romantic and song sequences were shot in Turkey, especially in scenic Antalya with its Mediterranean charm.
Guru (2007)-Though primarily shot in India, parts of the film that show Guru's rise as a businessman were filmed in Istanbul to portray international locations.
Dil Dhadakne Do (2015)- While the movie is set on a cruise through Europe, scenes in Istanbul's port and skyline were featured as part of the Mehra family's lavish journey.
Laal Singh Chaddha (2021)- Due to the COVID-19 pandemic halting production in India, Aamir Khan and his team resumed shooting in Turkey to complete the film. Key locations included Mount Demirkazñk in the NiÃÂde province, Istanbul, and Adana . During his stay, Aamir Khan also met with Turkey's First Lady, Emine ErdoÃÂan, at the Huber Mansion in Istanbul .
The Federation wrote, "In view of recent developments and Turkey's consistent positioning in support of Pakistan, which has raised concerns regarding national integrity and security, we believe it is not in the best interests of the Indian film industry to invest or collaborate in any form that could indirectly support or benefit such a nation. Turkey's stance has been noted not only diplomatically but also in numerous international forums, where it has taken stances that contradict India's sovereign interests. Turkey's stance has been observed not just diplomatically but also in various international forums, where it has taken positions contrary to India's sovereign interests. As an industry deeply rooted in Indian soil and culture, we cannot remain indifferent to actions that undermine our nation's dignity or security."
"We therefore appeal to all production houses, line producers, actors, directors, and crew members across the Indian film fraternity to stand in solidarity with the nation and boycott Turkey as a location for film shoots until such time that the country revisits its diplomatic stance and aligns with principles of mutual respect and non-interference," according to the press release
Meanwhile, the General Secretary of the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), Ashoke Dubey, has called for a complete ban on Pakistani artists from working in India. This comes after a deadly terrorist attack that took place in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22. Tensions between India and Pakistan have risen sharply since the attack.