LONDON — At an exclusive gathering marking their tricentenary gala at Raven’s Ait on the Thames, SRAM & MRAM Group and Paradigm Pictures unveiled plans for a revolutionary 100-acre film production hub in Tamil Nadu. This ambitious initiative, announced during the conglomerate’s 30th-anniversary celebrations, promises to transform how Indian cinema is created, combining cutting-edge virtual production technology with meticulously designed practical sets, setting a new global benchmark in filmmaking infrastructure.
The ₹3,000 crore initiative will feature the world’s most advanced virtual production facilities alongside carefully crafted physical sets of authentic Indian environments. Instead of traditional backlot constructions, the complex will leverage state-of-the-art LED volume stages capable of rendering photorealistic backgrounds from global locations, while preserving the tactile authenticity of essential Indian settings.
Central to the project are detailed practical sets of essential Indian environments, including fully operational school and university campuses with functional classrooms and lecture halls. Hospital sets will offer adjustable wards and authentic operating theatres, while village environments showcase region-specific architecture from across India. Urban settings will replicate distinctive streetscapes from Mumbai, Chennai, and other cities, complete with period-adjustable façades.
These physical sets will integrate seamlessly with the facility’s technological innovations. Twelve virtual production stages, each fitted with 360-degree 4K LED walls, will utilise advanced AI rendering to extend practical sets into limitless digital environments. Proprietary anti-glare technology ensures backgrounds maintain complete photorealism, eliminating artificial effects typical of conventional green screen techniques.
Sustainability is a core focus, with a 30MW solar farm powering the entire complex. Virtual production significantly reduces location travel needs and minimises construction waste, achieving an estimated 80% reduction in physical materials compared to traditional methods.
The facility will also offer luxurious residential accommodations, featuring thirty private villas equipped with AI-driven environmental controls that automatically adapt lighting and temperature to residents’ circadian rhythms. A dedicated visitor experience will provide augmented reality viewfinders, allowing enthusiasts behind-the-scenes insights into the innovative production processes.
Dr. Sailesh L. Hiranandani emphasised the project’s visionary scope: “Six months ago at Warren House, we promised ecosystems. Today, we deliver blueprints. This project reimagines cinematic infrastructure, harmonising physical authenticity with digital innovation.”
Mr. Arvind Dharmaraj added: “Our authentic Indian sets establish a foundation, while virtual capabilities empower filmmakers to realise extraordinary visions.”
A key partner of the initiative is Mr M.G. Sekhar, former Member of Parliament (DMK), who made history as the youngest MLA in India during his twenties under the leadership of the legendary Dr M.G. Ramachandran (Dr. MGR). His enduring commitment to Tamil Nadu’s development brings invaluable insight to the project. Supporting him is his son, Mr Vengateshwaran Sekhar, Chairman of Sapthagiri Group of Colleges, whose role strengthens the project’s integration with academic and community engagement.
Steering the strategic execution with seasoned precision is Mr Asish Pandit from Kolkata, who brings over four decades of cinematic expertise to the project. With roots in the land of the legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray—whose influence profoundly shaped auteurs like Martin Scorsese—Mr Pandit’s presence ensures that this film city reflects not only technological brilliance but a deep reverence for cinematic heritage. Our authentic Indian sets establish a foundation, while virtual capabilities empower filmmakers to realise extraordinary visions. From Chennai classrooms to the surface of Mars, every environment will feel equally genuine.
Strategic Alliance Showcase
Key partnerships highlighted at the gala include RingDance Film’s Gangland Sweden Trilogy currently in pre-production, Blue Innovation Group showcasing their marine technology innovations, and Chalice Champagne curating an official vintage served throughout the evening.
Evening of Distinction
Hosted by renowned Bollywood anchor Simran Ahuja, the event welcomed senior executives from Netflix, BBC, and associates of Oscar-winning filmmakers. Highlights included marine technology demonstrations by Blue Innovation Group, screenings of Paradigm’s acclaimed cinematic works, jazz ensemble performances in a recreated Victorian mansion set, and celebratory toasts with Chalice Champagne.
Economic & Cultural Impact
The initiative is projected to create thousands of skilled jobs across technical and creative sectors, generating ₹1,200 crore annually in tourism revenue. It will offer apprenticeship programmes in collaboration with BAFTA and National Award-winning designers and establish a dedicated academy for regional talent development.
Development Timeline
Construction commences 15 July 2025, with the first phase operational by Diwali 2026. Two major films are already in pre-production: a pan-Indian epic and an international collaboration leveraging next-generation virtual production technologies.
Follow developments: @ParadigmPictures_OFFL
SRAM & MRAM Group Promises To Transform Indian Cinema with Cutting-Edge Virtual Production Technology & Meticulously Designed Practical Sets, Setting A New Global Benchmark In Filmmaking Infrastructure
