Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney visited Dharma Productions, where he met filmmaker Karan Johar and CEO Apoorva Mehta to explore opportunities for closer collaboration between Scotland and the Indian film industry.

The meeting highlighted Scotland’s appeal as a destination for Indian film and television productions, with its striking landscapes, skilled crews, production infrastructure and creative expertise. Scotland also shares a cinematic connection with Dharma Productions, with its locations featuring in the much-loved Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.

Accompanied by representatives from Screen Scotland, the First Minister discussed future filming opportunities with Johar and Mehta, alongside the potential to build stronger creative and production ties.

The visit also included an industry roundtable convened with the Producers Guild of India, bringing together senior Indian producers and Scottish screen-sector representatives to explore a long-term screen partnership.