COUPLE Had Starring Role In Bringing Bollywood Blockbuster to Scotland

THE owners of Greenock-based company PG Paper have revealed how they put Scotland in the frame for filming of major Bollywood movie Bell Bottom.

The blockbuster is being released this week and features scenes shot throughout Greenock, Prestwick Airport and Glasgow last year.

It is based on the true story of plane hijacks that shook India in the 1980s, and features Bollywood legend Akshay Kumar.

PG Paper owners, Poonam and Puneet Gupta were instrumental in helping to facilitate filming in Scotland, persuading renowned film producer Vashu Bhagnani, that Scotland offered everything his film needed.

Footage was filmed outside the company’s headquarters at Custom House Quay, with the actors and the production team using its offices for rehearsals, hair and make-up and wardrobe.

Puneet said: “India is the second-largest investor in the UK. Poonam and myself enjoy strong relations with the country, across both business and the arts. With our close ties to India, we know several film producers and have known Vashu Bhagnani for several years.

“He first mentioned the project to us in 2019, long before the pandemic appeared on our horizon, and we were incredibly lucky to be able to support the film by providing space within our beautiful, waterfront-based offices in Greenock and helping to facilitate other locations across Scotland.

“Inverclyde Council deserve special mention for all their help throughout the project.

“Filming took place during August and September when, in common with other businesses, our staff were working from home and we were, therefore, able to provide a safe environment to support the film.

“Our eldest daughter was lucky enough to get the chance to play an extra on the set, so we are particularly looking forward to watching the film.”

Photos of the production crew at Custom House Quay

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