Bhopal's 141‑year‑old jail swaps inmates for Bollywood film shoots

The 141‑year‑old Bhopal Central Jail, one of the oldest correctional institutions in Madhya Pradesh, has entered into an unusual arrangement with the Bollywood film industry. Under the agreement, inmates are temporarily transferred or otherwise accommodated to make way for film crews and actors who wish to shoot scenes within the historic premises.

Prison officials say the swap provides a unique backdrop for filmmakers while offering the jail a way to utilise its heritage architecture for commercial purposes. Security protocols remain in place, and the exchange is conducted under strict supervision to ensure that the rights of both inmates and film personnel are respected.

The move has attracted attention across the entertainment sector, with several production houses expressing interest in using the jail’s corridors and cells for authentic on‑location shooting. No further details about the number of inmates involved or the specific films slated for production have been disclosed.

While the arrangement is seen as a novel revenue‑generating opportunity for the prison, it also raises questions about the ethical dimensions of using a correctional facility for entertainment purposes. Authorities have indicated that the practice will be reviewed periodically to balance heritage promotion with inmate welfare.