Bollywood has always found inspiration in India’s bustling small towns, and Kanpur has emerged as a favorite filming destination in recent years. Known for its vibrant streets, historic markets, colonial-era architecture, and the soulful ghats of the Ganga, Kanpur offers a raw authenticity that sets the perfect backdrop for powerful storytelling.
From big-budget blockbusters to slice-of-life dramas, the city has made its way to the silver screen, allowing audiences across the country to experience Kanpur’s charm.
This crime-comedy brought Kanpur into focus with iconic shots of Thaggu ke Laddoo, Bada Chauraha, and Kanpur Central Railway Station. The film perfectly captured the quirky, colorful essence of the city.
Kanpur added a rustic North Indian touch to this action drama. Street shots and the local vibe helped establish the film’s setting.
Both films showcased Kanpur’s lively lanes, railway station, and colonies, adding a small-town flavor to Tanu’s story. The city’s authenticity was central to the narrative.
When Chulbul Pandey was transferred to Kanpur, the film used city landmarks like the historic Kotwali, highlighting Kanpur’s old-world police and street culture.
Ayushmann Khurrana’s hit film featured several Kanpur landmarks such as Birhana Road, Anwarganj Railway Station, Methodist High School, and Civil Lines, making the city a character in itself.
The shooting of Bawaal commenced in April 2022 in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. One notable scene involved Varun Dhawan riding a motorcycle through the bustling Anand Bagh area.
The Bollywood film Maalik (2025), starring Rajkummar Rao and Manushi Chhillar, featured scenes shot in Kanpur. The final shooting schedule concluded in Kanpur, culminating in a wedding sequence on November 14, 2024.
