Explore Bangladesh’s Filming Locations

Bangladesh, with its rich culture, vibrant history, and captivating landscapes, has served as an alluring setting for many filmmakers, authors, and television creators. This comprehensive guide will take you on a journey through Bangladesh’s cinematic and literary landscape, exploring the locations that have been immortalized on the silver screen and in the pages of acclaimed books.

10 Famous Films Shot in Bangladesh

Bangladesh, with its diverse landscapes and cultural richness, has long inspired filmmakers. Here are ten memorable films that have captured the essence of the nation:

1. A River Called Titas (1973) – This film by Ritwik Ghatak brings to life the vivid culture and landscape of rural Bangladesh, particularly focusing on the life around the Titas River.
2. The Clay Bird (2002) – A poignant film that explores the political upheaval during the Bangladesh Liberation War, featuring iconic locations in Dhaka.
3. Television (2012) – This film by Mostofa Sarwar Farooki offers a satirical look at the clash between tradition and modernity in rural Bangladesh.
4. Oggatonama (2016) – A film that highlights the plight of Bangladeshi migrant workers, capturing the contrasting landscapes of rural Bangladesh and the Middle East.
5. Doob: No Bed of Roses (2017) – Set amidst the picturesque tea gardens of Sylhet, this film explores complex family dynamics.
6. Dhaka Attack (2017) – This action thriller, set in the heart of Dhaka city, offers a pulse-pounding view of the city’s urban landscape.
7. Made in Bangladesh (2019) – This film showcases the bustling garment industry in Dhaka, with a focus on the struggle of garment workers.
8. Alpha (2019) – A visually stunning film that uses the sandy landscapes of the coastal region of Bangladesh to tell the story of an artist.
9. Under Construction (2015) – The film explores the life of a modern woman in Dhaka city, with the city itself serving as a character in the narrative.
10. Meherjaan (2011) – Set during the Bangladesh Liberation War, this film captures the lush greenery and rural beauty of Bangladesh.

These films not only showcase Bangladesh’s unique charm but also provide movie buffs a glimpse into its soul.

5 TV Shows Set in Bangladesh

Television series set in Bangladesh have successfully captured the spirit and vibrancy of the nation. Here’s a look at five shows that have depicted the essence of Bangladesh:

1. Kothao Keu Nei (1990) – This classic Bangladeshi drama series, set in Dhaka, showcases a myriad of characters and their interconnected lives.
2. Aaj Robibar (1999) – Set in an old house in Dhaka, this comedy series captures the eccentricities of a Bangladeshi family.
3. Six Seasons (2010) – This British-Bangladeshi series, set in both London and Dhaka, explores the life of a British woman who falls in love with a Bangladeshi man.
4. Bachelor Point (2018) – This popular web series is set in a bachelor’s apartment in Dhaka, showcasing the myriad of challenges faced by the youth in the city.
5. Ladies & Gentlemen (2021) – This Bangladeshi web series, set in the corporate world of Dhaka, focuses on the lives of urban working women.

These series bring to life the diverse stories of Bangladesh, from the bustling streets of Dhaka to the rural landscapes of the countryside.

5 Animated Films Set in Bangladesh

While not as common, a few animated films have also captured the spirit of Bangladesh. Here are five notable mentions:

1. Meena (1991) – This UNICEF-produced animation series, set in a rural Bangladeshi village, addresses social issues and promotes child rights.
2. The Last Thakur (2008) – This British-Bangladeshi animation, set in a fictitious Bangladeshi town, is a reimagining of one of the most famous Bengali novels.
3. Daag Hobe Ki (2020) – This animated short film, set in Dhaka, raises awareness about air pollution in the city.
4. Tomorrow (2021) – This animated short film is based on the 1971 Liberation War of Bangladesh.
5. The Unnamed (2018) – This is the first 3D animated film made in Bangladesh, portraying the life of a homeless person in Dhaka city.

These animated features, while few, have utilized the backdrop of Bangladesh effectively to tell compelling stories and address important issues.

Famous Books Set in Bangladesh – 3 Classic and 3 Contemporary

Bangladesh, known for its rich culture and history, has been the setting for many literary works. Here are some classic and contemporary books that bring the spirit of Bangladesh to life:

Classic:

1. A Golden Age by Tahmima Anam – A novel that provides a heart-wrenching depiction of the Bangladesh Liberation War.
2. Brick Lane by Monica Ali – A book that captures the life of a Bangladeshi woman who migrates to London, with a vivid portrayal of rural Bangladesh.
3. My Girlhood by Taslima Nasrin – An autobiographical novel that paints a picture of life in Bangladesh during the liberation war.

Contemporary:

1. The Good Muslim by Tahmima Anam – A book set in post-war Bangladesh, exploring the country’s journey towards rebuilding itself.
2. The Bones of Grace by Tahmima Anam – A contemporary novel that explores the complexities of love and identity against the backdrop of Bangladesh’s past and present.
3. The Black Coat by Neamat Imam – A novel set during Bangladesh’s famine in 1974, providing a political commentary on the period.

Each of these books captures different facets of Bangladesh’s multifaceted persona, from its turbulent past to its vibrant present.

Exploring Bangladesh Filming Locations – Where to Go

Bangladesh, with its diverse landscapes and cultural richness, has long been a favored canvas for filmmakers. Here are some essential filming locations in Bangladesh you must visit:

1. Old Dhaka – The historic part of the city, with its narrow streets and bustling markets, has been a popular location for many films.
2. Sylhet – Known for its tea gardens and lush greenery, Sylhet has provided a picturesque backdrop for many films.
3. Chittagong Hill Tracts – The hills and lakes of this region have served as stunning locations for films.
4. Cox’s Bazar – With the world’s longest sea beach, this tourist spot has been featured in many films and TV shows.
5. Sundarbans – The world’s largest mangrove forest, home to the Royal Bengal tiger, offers an exotic location for filmmakers.

Exploring these filming locations offers a blend of entertainment and sightseeing, allowing you to engage with Bangladesh’s film heritage while enjoying its cultural and natural attractions.

Where to Sleep in Bangladesh – 3 Cheap and 3 Luxury

Bangladesh offers a diverse range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels.

Budget-friendly options:

1. FARS Hotel & Resorts, Dhaka – A budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Dhaka.
2. Hotel Sea Crown, Cox’s Bazar – An affordable option overlooking the Bay of Bengal.
3. Hotel Plaza Bandarban – A budget-friendly hotel in Bandarban, offering stunning views of the hills.

Luxury options:

1. The Westin Dhaka – A luxury hotel in Dhaka, offering top-tier service and amenities.
2. Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden – A resort-style hotel in Dhaka, featuring lush gardens and a tranquil ambiance.
3. Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka – A luxury hotel located in central Dhaka, known for its refined atmosphere and excellent service.

Whether you’re seeking budget-friendly accommodations or looking for luxury, you’ll find options in Bangladesh to suit your preferences.

Where to Eat in Bangladesh – 3 Budget and 3 Luxury

Bangladesh offers a diverse culinary landscape, with both budget-friendly street food and upscale dining experiences.

Budget-friendly options:

1. Haji Biriyani, Dhaka – Famous for its special biryani, a must-try dish in Bangladesh.
2. Beauty Lassi, Old Dhaka – Known for its delicious lassi, a traditional yogurt-based drink.
3. Pitha Ghar, Dhaka – Offers a variety of ‘pithas’, a traditional Bangladeshi pancake.

Luxury options:

1. Sura, Dhaka – An upscale dining option offering a range of delicious seafood.
2. The 8, Dhaka – An elegant restaurant offering a blend of Asian cuisines.
3. Spice & Rice, Dhaka – Known for its luxurious setting and delicious Bangladeshi and Indian dishes.

Whether you’re sampling street food or dining in an upscale restaurant, Bangladesh’s food scene is sure to captivate your taste buds.

Detailed Itinerary Day by Day

To help you navigate through the cinematic landscape of Bangladesh, here’s a 5-day itinerary.

Day 1: Dhaka

Start your tour in Old Dhaka, exploring locations from films like “Television”. Visit the historic Ahsan Manzil and try some famous Haji Biriyani for lunch. In the evening, explore the vibrant markets of Old Dhaka.

Day 2: Sylhet

Head to Sylhet, known for its tea gardens featured in “Doob: No Bed of Roses”. Explore the beautiful landscapes and visit the Lawachara National Park. Enjoy a cup of fresh tea at a local tea estate.

Day 3: Chittagong

Visit Chittagong, where the hills and lakes have been captured in many films. Take a boat ride in Kaptai Lake and visit the tribal villages in the Hill Tracts.

Day 4: Cox’s Bazar

Explore Cox’s Bazar, which has been featured in many films and TV shows. Enjoy the beach, visit the local markets, and try some local seafood.

Day 5: Sundarbans

On your last day, visit the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest and a popular location for filmmakers. Take a boat trip to spot wildlife, including the Royal Bengal tiger.

Cryptid Legends and Curiosities about Bangladesh’s Film Industry

Bangladesh has a rich tradition of folklore and legends, some of which have inspired filmmakers. The tales of the “Bonbibi”, the guardian spirit of the forests in the Sundarbans, and “Gazi Pir”, a Muslim saint said to have tamed the Bengal tiger, add a layer of mystery and intrigue to these regions.

The Bangladeshi film industry, also known as Dhallywood, is based in Dhaka and has been producing films since the 1950s. The industry experienced a golden age from the 1960s to the 1980s, but faced a decline in the 1990s due to the rise of satellite television. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of Bangladeshi cinema with films like “Television” and “Aynabaji”.

Hidden Gems in Bangladesh

Beyond the well-known locations, Bangladesh also harbors lesser-known locales that offer unique settings for filmmakers. The Saint Martin’s Island, with its pristine beaches and coral reefs, the tribal villages in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, and the ancient ruins in Paharpur offer stunning locations for filmmakers.

The bustling ship-breaking yards in Chittagong provide a stark backdrop for stories around labor rights and environmental issues. The vibrant rickshaw art scene in Dhaka offers a colorful setting for films and documentaries.

What to Pack for a Trip to Bangladesh

When packing for Bangladesh, keep in mind the tropical climate and cultural norms. Lightweight clothing is suitable for the hot and humid weather, but it’s advisable to dress modestly. Women might prefer to wear long skirts or trousers and cover their shoulders.

Don’t forget to pack a good pair of walking shoes for exploring the city streets and rural landscapes. A hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses will protect you from the sun. The monsoon season (June to September) can be very wet, so an umbrella or raincoat is essential.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Bangladesh

Getting around Bangladesh can be an adventure in itself. The country has a wide range of public transportation options, from auto-rickshaws (locally known as CNGs) and cycle rickshaws to buses and trains. For long distances, domestic flights are available.

Boat travel is also popular in Bangladesh, with river ferries providing a scenic and relaxed way to travel between cities. For exploring the Sundarbans, boat tours are the best option.

Travel Documents Needed for Visiting Bangladesh

For international travelers, a valid passport and visa are required to enter Bangladesh. It’s advisable to obtain your visa in advance from a Bangladeshi embassy or consulate. Upon arrival, you may also need to show proof of onward or return travel.

In conclusion, Bangladesh, with its rich cultural tapestry and diverse landscapes, offers a captivating backdrop for film and literature enthusiasts. So, pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey through the cinematic and literary landscape of Bangladesh!