Maharashtra govt sanctions Rs 130 crore for revival of ND Studio

Raigad: In a big initiative, the Maharashtra government has sanctioned Rs 130 crore for revival of the iconic ND Studio located at Karjat in the Raigad district.

The ND Studio, located around 50 to 60 kms away from downtown Mumbai, was founded in 2005 by eminent national-award winning art director and production designer Nitin Chandrakant Desai, who died by suicide 2 August 2023 apparently because of mounting debts.

In November 2024, the Maharashtra Film, Theatre and Cultural Development Corporation (MFTCDC) took over the operations after the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) approved the resolution plan.

MFTCDC runs the Dadasaheb Phakle Chitranagari, popularly known as the Film City located in the western suburbs of Mumbai.

At a meeting of the Cultural Affairs department held in the , Fadnavis sanctioned the funds for the ND Studio.

“The Maharashtra Government has entrusted ND Art World, founded by legendary art director Nitin Desai, to Filmcity Mumbai for operation. A Rs 130 crore package— Rs 120 crore for development and Rs 10 crore for operations—has been allocated to preserve this cultural landmark,” Fadnavis said after the meeting.

Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, Legislative Council Chairperson Prof Ram Shinde, Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar, Industries Minister Uday Samant, Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik, Additional Chief Secretary Vikas Kharge, who head the Cultural Affairs Department, were present in the meeting.

A cheque of Rs 130 crore was handed over by the CM and Deputy CMs to MFTCDC Managing Director Swati Mhase Patil.

“With these initiatives, Maharashtra continues to strengthen its film industry, cultural heritage, and sustainable infrastructure, fostering growth and innovation in the sector,” said Fadnavis.

Desai has created magnificent sets for award-winning superhit films like Lagaan, Jodha Akbar, Mission Kashmir, Munnabhai M.B.B.S and Lage Raho Munnabhai and TV show Kaur Banega Crorepati and Bigg Boss- and also created the ND Studio, a private facility with several indoor and outdoor locations.

The ND Studio is spread over 52 acres - was once one of the popular TV serial, films and commercial shoot destinations.

ND’s Art World Pvt Ltd had borrowed around Rs 185 crore through two loans, however, because of multiple reasons including the Covid-triggered lockdown, Desai could not repay it.