Mumbai: A UNESCO City of Film and Creativity

UNESCO Creative City of Film: Mumbai

Mumbai, India, became a UNESCO Creative Cities Network member and was designated a UNESCO City of Film by the UNESCO Director-General in 2019.

Being a member of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network enhances Mumbai’s cultural landscape in several meaningful ways:

• Collaboration and Learning: Mumbai gains the opportunity to exchange knowledge and best practices with other cities in the Network. This collaborative spirit fosters innovative ideas and projects that can elevate the creative industry within the city.

• Experiential Opportunities for Filmmakers: The Network allows filmmakers, students, and film enthusiasts from other creative cities to immerse themselves in Mumbai’s vibrant filmmaking environment. Through workshops, internships, and on-set experiences, they can gain firsthand insight into the artistry and complexities of film production in this bustling metropolis.

• Boosting Economic Development: The recognition as a UNESCO Creative City can have a transformative effect on related industries, leading to a surge in local economic growth. Mumbai can cultivate a thriving ecosystem that benefits the community by attracting skilled professionals, creating job opportunities, and inviting investment into the local film sector. This initiative encourages diverse participation, ensuring that all segments of society have a voice and role in the film industry.

• Enhancing Mumbai’s Global Cinema Reputation: Mumbai can solidify its standing in the global cinema landscape by sharing and exchanging creative resources with other network cities. This collaboration enriches the film sector and is essential in advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promoting cultural diversity and creative expression internationally.

Mumbai’s membership in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network strengthens its cultural identity and fosters an inclusive and innovative environment for filmmakers and the community.

Mumbai, often referred to as the commercial capital of India, is renowned for being the birthplace of the Indian film industry, a vibrant and pivotal part of the nation’s culture. The journey began in 1896 when the city experienced its first film screening, a momentous occasion that would pave the way for a cinematic revolution. In 1913, the legendary filmmaker Mr. Dadasaheb Phalke took a significant step forward by producing the first Indian silent feature film, marking a cornerstone in the history of Indian cinema.

The Government of Maharashtra established Film City in the bustling heart of Mumbai, providing a dedicated space for filmmakers to bring their artistic visions to life. This significant development contributed to the thriving film culture in the city. Since the inception of these early films, Indian cinema has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from simple silent narratives to sophisticated, high-tech productions that delight audiences today, showcasing an impressive blend of storytelling, artistry, and innovation.

Today, Mumbai is the center of a vibrant film industry known as Bollywood. It houses India’s most prominent movie and television stars and directors and significant international production companies such as Fox Star and Walt Disney. The film sector in Mumbai provides employment opportunities for over four million people and contributes more than $15.6 billion to India’s media and entertainment industry.

Known as the “City of Dreams,” Mumbai is viewed as a land of opportunity for artists and talent from across the country. As a film hub, the city has established various private and public initiatives to support, develop, and nurture artists.

As a UNESCO Creative City of Film, Mumbai is dedicated to enhancing its reputation within the global cinema sector through several strategic initiatives:

• Global Collaboration: Mumbai seeks to establish connections with other UNESCO Creative Cities of Film to facilitate the exchange of resources and ideas. This collaboration includes the UCCN Cities Film Festival, which celebrates diverse cinematic narratives from around the globe.

• Accessibility and Community Engagement: The city is committed to ensuring that film is accessible to all community members. Mumbai plans to engage the public through various activities, discussions, and screenings to cultivate a deeper appreciation for cinema.

• Skill Development and Support: Mumbai recognizes the importance of skill development and intends to provide short-term technical training for individuals involved in the informal filmmaking sector. Collaborations with educational institutions and corporate partners will equip aspiring filmmakers with essential skills and knowledge.

• Streamlined Filmmaking Processes: To enhance the filmmaking experience, the city is focused on developing policies and regulations that simplify filmmaking procedures. By promoting transparency in approval processes, Mumbai aims to establish a more supportive environment for filmmakers at all levels.

• Cultural Hubs: Mumbai envisions the creation of vibrant cultural hubs and public spaces dedicated to film-related activities. These venues will facilitate screenings, workshops, and community events through effective public-private partnerships, fostering collaboration and creativity among filmmakers and the public.

Through these initiatives, Mumbai aspires to reinforce its cultural identity and strengthen its position as a significant contributor to the global cinema landscape.

Source: UNESCO

— CitiTimes Editor works towards forging connections between qualified creative cities across the globe and the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN). By actively promoting the benefits of UCCN membership, he invites interested cities to apply and join this prestigious Network. This initiative seeks to expand the community of creative towns and strengthen the UCCN’s mission of fostering cultural collaboration and sustainable development in leading cultural cities worldwide.