International
Moscow rolls out the red carpet for Indian filmmakers
MUMBAI: Lights, camera, Moscow! Indian filmmakers now have a blockbuster reason to pack their cameras and head to Russia’s capital. At FICCI Frames 2025, Moskino unveiled the Moscow Film Cluster, offering a fully integrated ecosystem and up to a 45 per cent international rebate for productions.
Designed as a one-stop shop, the Film Cluster streamlines the filmmaking process with sound stages, backlots, post-production facilities, and a central operational platform. From pre-production to premiere, Moskino ensures producers can focus on creativity, not logistics.
The incentives are compelling: 30 per cent cash rebate on expenses, plus an additional 15 per cent value in services, visas, and accommodation discounts. And with the Moscow Film Commission providing free services: location scouting, permits, street closures, and dynamic filming support, shooting in Moscow has never been easier.
Legendary Gorky Film Studio, the sprawling Film Park, and the futuristic Film Factory (home to Russia’s largest LED virtual production pavilion) ensure filmmakers have every tool at their fingertips. Moskino even operates 13 cinemas, offering built-in exhibition potential for completed films.
From the Kremlin’s iconic spires to Moscow City’s sleek skyline and sprawling parks, the city doubles as multiple European or Asian capitals while retaining its own cinematic grandeur. With world-class crews and infrastructure, Moscow is positioning itself as Asia’s next major production hub for Indian cinema.
Producers attending FICCI Frames 2025 can visit the Moscow Film Cluster booth to explore collaborations and discover how Moscow can turn their next project into an international success story.
International
Russia-India cinematic spectacle Persimmon of My Love set for grand Moscow debut
Hindi cinema style musical revives Indo-Soviet cinema ties for today
MUMBAI: A new chapter in cross-border storytelling is set to unfold as Persimmon of My Love gears up for its premiere in Moscow on 1 April 2026, marking the first large-scale cinematic collaboration between Russia and India in decades.
Positioned as a modern nod to the cultural exchange that once brought Indian classics to Soviet audiences, the film blends Hindi cinema flair with Russian storytelling, aiming to rekindle a long-standing cinematic friendship.
Directed by Marius Weisberg, the musical comedy follows two brothers navigating a lively world of music, family and romance. The lead roles are played by Demis Karibidis and Mikhail Galustyan, with Karibidis also contributing as a screenwriter.
Shot entirely in India, the production leans heavily into Hindi cinema style spectacle. Filming took place across Mumbai studios and the cities of Udaipur and Jodhpur, whose architecture was used to create the fictional setting of Khurmada. A crew of over 350 worked on the project, with large-scale sequences featuring up to 1,000 extras.
The film also brings Indian creative talent into the mix. Dance sequences are choreographed by Jay Kumar, while music by Zurab Matua features songs in both Hindi and Russian, adding to its cross-cultural appeal.
Backed by TNT channel, MyWayStudio and the Russian Cinema Fund, the project reflects a broader push to strengthen cultural ties between the two countries.
With its mix of colour, comedy and cross-border collaboration, Persimmon of My Love is not just a film release but a reminder that cinema, much like music, travels well across borders.
