The Ernakulam district administration has identified 30 acres at the Kerala Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation’s (Kinfra) Petrochemicals Park in Ambalamugal for the proposed J. C. Daniel film city project.
The proposal has been forwarded to the Keralam government, which plans to set up the film city under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. The 30-acre land parcel has been identified within the park which is spread over a total of around 481 acres, according to sources.
The Keralam government had included the film city project in the revised Budget 2026-27 presented by Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan, who also holds the Finance portfolio, on June 19, 2026.
Better connectivity
Though multiple revenue land options were considered in the initial stage, the authorities zeroed in on the Kinfra’s land in Ambalamugal in view of its improved connectivity and access as the project is being planned as a one-stop destination for film shooting.
The Department of Culture had sought the feedback of stakeholders in Malayalam cinema on shortlisting an ideal location for the film city project. The government had preferred Revenue land in order to cut the cost involved in acquiring private land for the venture. The district administration was told to identify around 25 to 30 acres of Revenue land, including sites earmarked for industrial development, according to officials.
Studio floors, entertainment and gaming zones, exhibition centres chronicling history of Malayalam cinema, state-of-the-art screening facilities and virtual production studio are among the key facilities under consideration at the film city.
The government has also received suggestions to invite private investment in setting up premium hotels, pre and post-production studios and space for holding film previews, audio and trailer launch at the film city.
A detailed project proposal will be formulated after considering various suggestions that had emerged through consultations involving various sections of Malayalam cinema.
The government will also rope in experts for coming up with a unique design for the proposed film city, according to sources.
Published - October 14, 2026 04:25 pm IST