Feel like a Bollywood star here in Dubai
dubai — On Thursday, as the sun set, Hindi movie lovers in the UAE stepped out in large numbers to meet their favourite stars. Not in reality, of course, but to get a real cinematic experience at the world’s first Bollywood Parks & Resorts. The evening began with a loud musical dance performance on peppy tracks like Kaala Chashma, Rock On and other old Bollywood numbers.
Alemnji Taku, a native of Cameroon, has never been to Mumbai, but is a die hard fan of Shah Rukh Khan. His eyes were sparkling with the thrill and excitement for the sparkling night. “I have seen all the movies of Shah Rukh Khan; I adore him and this place is truly a heaven for me. Bollywood is irresistible. I have never been to Mumbai or India, but would definitely love to meet my favourite star in person someday.”
The perfectly designed theme park on 1.7 million square feet gives an authentic feel and flavour of Mumbai, with classic cutouts of the stars, replicas of Hindi film sets, fun rides, old theatres and stunt shows.
Vimal Anthony visited with his mother and aunts to show them the old movie stalls and experience the magic of Bollywood in Dubai. His mother joyfully said: “I am delighted to be here tonight; we have just arrived here, but have already started liking the place. I feel I am back in India and watching a masala (entertaining) movie. The place is extremely beautiful and I must say, the parking area is very good”.
The park also offers a great variety for food lovers and shopaholics. It has everything from street food like vada pav to fine dining places like Mughal-E-Azam (named after one of the first colour films), and other eateries like Shahenshah (with Amitabh Bacchan in the lead). A Bollywood studio store, Desi Emporium, and Mumbai Bazaar at the park are hotspots created for shoppers and offers a variety of souvenirs, accessories, movie posters and themed merchandise.
Lian Mosli, a little girl, is here from Saudi Arabia with her parents and had no clue about Bollywood but she was seen enjoying the sights. On the very first day, it managed to attract hundreds of visitors — both residents and tourists. The volunteers at the event are expecting more crowds on Friday and Saturday.
CV Reji, a Dubai resident who was there with his wife and son, said: “It would definitely attract more tourists to Dubai and raise its entertainment profile. I have just entered the place and am looking forward to some dance, drama, action and suspense.”
ankita@khaleejtimes.com