Imtiaz Ali Sneaks Into Forbidden London Area

But then, the evidence of their mischievous artistic license is there on-screen in Love Aaj Kal. Certainly when the British authorities see what Imtiaz and Saif have done, they are not going to be amused.

The enterprising director and producer actor, not just dodged the authorities to shoot in an area of London where shooting is forbidden, they also got the local cops to co-operate and help with the shooting.

Imtiaz is a bit bashful about sharing details. But he finally spills the beans. “There’s too much redtapism in London about shooting, much of it obsolete and irrelevant. The people sitting in authority are like those bureaucratic babus in our secretariats who don’t know why they’re saying yes or no. They’re just obeying the written word.”

When in London, Imtiaz and Saif needed to shoot at the crowded and posh Leaden hall Market and were denied permission, Imtiaz suggested they do the shooting surreptitiously, knowing that the repercussions of a foreign shooting unit caught shooting without permission could be far-reaching.

Recounting the harrowing experience Imtiaz says, “We hid the cameras in vans and the cast and crew walked into the location casually. Once there, we pretended that we were shooting with the relevant permission. The unsuspecting cops on duty were extremely charmed, and charming. They went out of their way to help us and even participated in the shooting.”

The irony of the authorities co-operating with a surreptitious shooting didn’t end there.

Chuckles Imtiaz, “We saw this woman with a horse passing by and wanted to capture it on camera. But couldn’t. When we expressed regret, they called back the lady and the horse and made them walk by for our camera’s sake.”

Is London becoming hostile to Indian shooting?

Rensil d’Silva had to relocate Qurbaan from London to the US. Abbas Tyrewala is currently facing road blocks in shooting at chosen locations for 1:800 Love.

Says Imtiaz, “There’s too much redtapism in England. I found it far easier to get the required permission, and shoot in the US.”