Filmmaker Anubhav Sinha recently concluded an extensive four-week shooting schedule in Delhi for his upcoming film, covering more than 20 locations across the National Capital Region. His primary takeaways from this experience were the remarkable helpfulness of the city's residents and its incredible food, leading him to depart 2-4 kilograms heavier and with a wealth of warm memories.

Sinha consciously opted for a different visual narrative of Delhi, steering clear of the usual picturesque backdrops like the posh South Delhi, elegant Lutyen's Delhi, or the old-world charm of Purani Dilli. Instead, he chose to capture the more authentic and 'gritty' facets of the city, filming in diverse areas such as Sadar Bazar, Amar Colony, Yamuna Ghat, and even the Ghazipur landfill. This deliberate choice aimed to make the film feel intrinsically set in Delhi, even without featuring its iconic landmarks, a tricky endeavor that required an extensive and nuanced approach.

A significant highlight of the shoot was the overwhelming hospitality of the Delhi people. Sinha praised them as 'wonderful hosts,' noting their deep affection for films and their readiness to assist the 150-person crew. Despite the chaotic nature of a film shoot, locals were eager to offer meals or a cup of tea, with shop owners in areas like Amar Colony going out of their way to provide assistance. Sinha humorously recounted how, even when he couldn't accept invitations for a full meal, tea would invariably arrive, underscoring their warm, 'Punjabi effect' hospitality. He emphasized that the locals' willingness to grant access to private spaces like garages and terraces greatly facilitated the complex production.

The city's culinary delights also left a lasting impression on the director. He confessed that food-related discussions precede any shoot in a new city, and Delhi, with its abundance of 'special' eateries at every turn, exceeded expectations. His particular fondness for chhole bhature was so strong that he humorously stated he 'hates' them because he desires to eat them daily, attributing his weight gain during the schedule to this indulgence.

Beyond the production aspects, Sinha views Delhi as the 'real microcosm of India.' He observes how all social strata—from the affluent and neo-rich to the bourgeois and those in slums, forming the 'underbelly of any metropolis'—coexist seemingly seamlessly. This unique characteristic contributes to the city's vibrant and complex fabric, making it a truly unique experience for him as a filmmaker.