Aditya Dhar’s latest box-office hit, Dhurandhar, has left audiences stunned—not just with its action, but with its grit and realism. While the film is set in the bustling streets of Lyari, Pakistan, the production team has revealed that the movie was shot in an entirely different Asian country: Thailand.
Why Thailand and Not India?
The filmmakers initially considered building the set in Mumbai. However, several logistical challenges forced a change of plans:
- The Monsoon Factor: Filming was scheduled during July, making Mumbai’s heavy rains a major risk for a massive outdoor set.
- Scale of Production: The project required a sprawling six-acre space, which local studios could not accommodate.
- Artist Collaboration: Thailand offered the infrastructure to support a massive crew of over 500 artists from both India and Thailand.
Recreating Lyari on a Six-Acre Set
Production designer Saini S Johray led the monumental task of recreating the Pakistani town from scratch in Bangkok. To ensure the set didn’t look like Thailand, the team took extreme measures:
- Meticulous Research: The crew studied old Pakistani films, newspaper clippings, and YouTube archives to capture the authentic vibe of Lyari.
- Attention to Detail: Every element, from the specific texture of the walls to the design of the window grills, was handcrafted to mirror the local character of the Pakistani neighborhood.
- Rapid Construction: Despite its massive scale, the set was remarkably completed in just 20 days, with 300–400 Thai artists working alongside Indian professionals.
“We were extra careful to avoid any element that might give away the set’s actual location,” Johray shared, noting that the goal was a completely immersive experience for the audience.
Success at the Box Office
The effort has paid off. Dhurandhar is currently receiving widespread acclaim, with celebrities like Shraddha Kapoor praising the film for its perfect casting and authentic atmosphere. The “Lyari” set has become a testament to modern production design, proving that with enough research, a corner of Bangkok can convincingly become the heart of Pakistan.