“Turkey will suffer major loss,” says Ashoke Pandit on India`s boycott call

In a bold move reflecting growing geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has declared a complete boycott of Indian film shoots in Turkey and Azerbaijan. The directive, which applies to all members of the Indian film industry, aims to halt all professional collaboration with these countries. This comes after the two countries expressed support to Pakistan amid tension with India. 

`Turkey was hot location for Indian films`

Speaking exclusively to Mid-day, FWICE Chief Advisor Ashoke Pandit elaborated on the impact of the decision, especially on Turkey, which had become a hotspot for Indian film shoots.

“We have issued clear instructions to the entire industry — producers, associations, everyone — that no shooting will take place in Turkey or Azerbaijan,” said Pandit. “No technicians will go, no directors will go, no actors can go. We will also ask producers to formally notify their peers not to engage with these locations.”

According to Pandit, Turkey was once considered a second home for Bollywood productions. “It was a very hot location. Just like people regularly shoot in Kashmir, Turkey and Azerbaijan had become regular destinations. Major films were shot there. The locations were dramatic, fresh, and visually stunning — and not overused like others.”

`Will result in loss for Turkey`

He emphasized that Indian film crews brought substantial financial benefits to Turkey. “A major chunk of our film budgets would go to shooting in Turkey. The support from their government was strong, facilities were excellent, and it suited everyone. For filmmakers, it was almost like shooting in Mumbai, in terms of convenience.”

“Turkey will now suffer a major loss,” Pandit added. “They didn’t offer subsidies, but they earned heavily through our presence. We promoted their tourism, both financially and through global exposure. Because of us, more Indian tourists discovered Turkey.”

He also praised Turkey’s streamlined processes for international shoots. “It was a very industry-friendly country — one-window permissions, good government support, great infrastructure. But now that access is closed.”

With this boycott in effect, the Indian film industry is expected to turn its focus to alternate international locations, while also exploring domestic scenic spots to fill the void left by Turkey and Azerbaijan.

This article first appeared on Mid Day