A Cinematic Display of India’s Traditional Structures
This past weekend was no exception for me. It is common these days for a busy family patriarch to fall into a weekend trap. The kids are excited, the plan is set, and, before you know it, you’re knee-deep into a cinematic experience you hadn’t planned for. The movie on demand? Stree 2. What started as a simple family movie night turned into something much deeper. Sure, the plot had its twists and thrills, but what truly captured my attention was the setting—the architecture of India displayed on the grand 75mm screen.
The Weekend Trap and an Unexpected Architectural Journey
Like many weekend watch sessions, Stree 2 quickly absorbed me with its intriguing storyline. But more than the headless ghost, it was the fictional town of Chanderi that felt so alive, almost as if it were a character in itself. The narrow streets, crumbling structures, and centuries-old buildings had a way of pulling me into the heart of the story. Each stone seemed to have its own tale to tell, adding layers of mystery and depth to the film.
The Cinematic Charm of Chanderi
Situated in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, the historic town of Chanderi holds a timeless charm. Its legacy goes back centuries, shaped by the Rajput and Mughal architectural influences that have graced its landscapes. With its blend of history, design, and craftsmanship, Chanderi stands as a tribute to India’s rich architectural heritage. Stree 2 cleverly harnesses this old-world charm. The eerie, spooky atmosphere that looms over the film is heightened by the town’s real-life ancient structures. Narrow alleys, grand fortifications, and aged temples like the Chanderi Fort, Kati Ghati Gateway, and Jageshwari Mandir all add to the supernatural aura of the story. These locations become more than just backdrops—they are integral to the film’s haunting narrative, making the town an essential part of the chilling experience.
A Cinematic Tribute to Indian Architecture
What truly sets Stree 2 apart is its ability to marry modern filmmaking techniques with India’s traditional architecture. The filmmakers used clever lighting, sharp framing, and sweeping low-angle shots to bring out the grandeur of Chanderi’s historical landmarks. The town’s tight, labyrinthine streets and towering centuries-old homes create a sense of claustrophobia and immersion, where the past and present seem to collide in dramatic fashion. Through masterful cinematography, the textures of stone, intricate carvings, and vastness of Chanderi Fort leap off the screen. It’s a reminder that architecture, much like cinema, has the ability to transport us—evoking emotions, telling stories, and connecting us to forgotten times.
A Legacy Carved in Stone
Chanderi’s rich history stretches back to the 11th century, shaped by the Malwa Sultanate, Bundela Rajputs, and Mughals. Positioned on a key trade route between Central India and the Deccan, the town gained fame for its intricate weaving and timeless architectural beauty. The Chanderi Fort, built in the 15th century by the Sultan of Malwa, remains one of the town’s most iconic landmarks. Standing tall atop a hill, it commands a view over the town, with its walls narrating tales of resilience and power. Another marvel is the Kati Ghati Gateway, a colossal 80-foot entry carved out of a single rock in 1495 by Jiman Khan, a governor under Sultan Mahmood Shah Khilji. Serving as a trade gateway, it showcases the engineering brilliance of the time.
These structures, with their strategic designs and use of natural materials like stone, offer invaluable lessons to modern architects. They seamlessly blend with the landscape, designed to endure through centuries, providing not only protection but also a sense of community and purpose.
Architectural Inspiration for Today
Architecture, much like filmmaking, is a powerful storytelling medium. Just as the ancient buildings in Stree 2 tell stories of endurance, craftsmanship, and history, so can modern architecture. By incorporating traditional elements into contemporary designs, today’s architects can create spaces that honor the past while looking toward the future. For modern architects, Chanderi serves as a reminder of what’s possible when design respects both nature and history. The thoughtful integration of buildings into their environment, the use of sustainable materials, and the attention to detail resonate with today’s architectural trends. It’s a blend of old-world charm and new-world sensibility, creating spaces that stand the test of time.
Wrapping It Up
In the end, my weekend “trap” turned into a rewarding experience. Stree 2 took me on an unexpected journey through India’s architectural history, while also offering the thrills of a modern horror-comedy, and if you haven’t watched Stree 2 yet, it’s a must-see for more than just the scares. Until next time, keep designing, keep appreciating, and let the stories of our past guide the architecture of the future.
Citations:-
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chanderi
https://www.republicworld.com/entertainment/bollywood/stree-was-shot-in-the-heart-of-india-madhya-pradesh-see-locations
https://curlytales.com/would-you-dare-to-visit-these-horror-themed-shooting-locations-of-stree-2-sarkate-ka-aatank/
https://www.travelandleisureasia.com/in/destinations/india/explore-the-eerie-filming-locations-of-stree-2/