Himachal Pradesh Hosts Filming of 'The Snow Bride' Web Series Featuring Local Talent
Local Artists Shine in New Web Series
Munish Sood
Mandi
The enchanting Janjehli Valley in Himachal Pradesh is alive with the sounds of production as a new web series, 'The Snow Bride,' is being filmed. This project combines elements of folklore, suspense, and the rich cultural heritage of the mountains, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Himalayas.
Written and produced by CL Saini, a writer from Mumbai known for his mythological narratives, the series draws from a folk tale originating from the Jaunsar Babar area of Uttarakhand, where Saini spent his formative years. He has crafted the story after thorough research into local myths and traditions associated with the mountainous terrain.
The cast features notable television actors, including Bhumika Gurung, Deep Raj Rana, Ravindra Kumar, and Ishan, alongside talented performers from Shimla, Mandi, and Kangra, who play significant roles in the series.
Saini shared that the plot is deeply rooted in the traditional beliefs of the mountains. He recalls hearing tales from elders in the Jaunsar Babar region about enigmatic mountain spirits and supernatural occurrences. Local women also spoke of a mountain deity akin to Narsingh Devta, revered in parts of Himachal Pradesh. The narrative introduces a Yeti-like mythical figure and its enigmatic bride, the 'Snow Bride,' exploring how individuals exploit divine beliefs for their own agendas while reflecting the cultural and mythological essence of the Himalayan region.
The choice of Janjehli Valley as the filming location was intentional, as it mirrors the geography and cultural atmosphere depicted in the original folklore. Art Director Chokas Bhardwaj, from Dharamshala, noted that the area has previously hosted film shoots, with local residents being exceptionally supportive. The production team selected this location after viewing Mandi-based director Pawan Sharma’s film 'Breena,' and the snowy landscape at the time of their visit made it an ideal setting for 'The Snow Bride.'
Produced by CL Entertainer Private Limited, the web series is set to premiere on the Hungama OTT platform by the end of April. Comprising six episodes, it promises a thrilling blend of suspense and folklore, while also providing a valuable platform for local Himachali artists to display their acting skills.
CL Saini, originally from Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, is a graduate of the Shri Ram Centre in Delhi and has over 25 years of experience in scriptwriting and production. He has previously penned scripts for several well-known mythological television series, including 'Laddu Gopal,' 'Devo Ke Dev,' 'Siya Ke Ram,' 'Vikram Betal,' 'Naagin,' and 'Ganesh–Kartikeya.'
Potential for Film Production in Himachal
Discussing the future of filmmaking in Himachal Pradesh, Saini pointed out that the state remains largely untapped in terms of cinematic opportunities. While films have predominantly showcased locations like Shimla, Manali, Spiti, and Ladakh, many equally breathtaking areas are still overlooked.
He remarked, 'Himachal’s landscapes are so stunning that filmmakers need not venture abroad for picturesque settings. Regions like Shikari Valley rival the beauty of Switzerland.'
Saini also proposed that a streamlined, single-window clearance system for film permits could simplify the process for filmmakers and encourage more productions in the state. The establishment of a film city in Himachal could further enhance the industry by providing local access to equipment, lighting, and post-production facilities, reducing the need to transport extensive resources from Mumbai.
With its unique blend of mythology, suspense, and Himalayan culture, 'The Snow Bride' aims not only to captivate audiences but also to highlight the cinematic potential of Himachal Pradesh and its talented local artists.