PRESS RELEASE

The first Bollywood film to be set entirely in Sydney, Heyy Babyy was previewed last night at the State Theatre in Sydney, two days ahead of its world-premiere in Mumbai today.

More than 200 high-profile guests were showered with flower petals as they walked the red carpet – a traditional Indian welcome. Guests were entertained by a cast of Indian dancers, a bhangara drummer and a henna tattooist as they feasted on authentic Indian cuisine.

Minister for Tourism Matt Brown welcomed a mix of film industry representatives including leading film producers, John Winter and Jim McElroy, actors Jessica Napier and Deborah Lee Furness along with Indian Business leaders, 20 top-tier Indian travel wholesalers and representatives of the NSW tourism industry. 

The producer, Sajid Nadiawala and Director, Sajid Khan, sent taped messages to the Sydney audience, saying “Family comes first to every Indian. And as a traditional Indian, I have always made sure that my family has the first look at all my films. Today Sydney Australia is part of my extended family and it was only logical to me that Sydney and Australia gets the first look of the film.”

The film was very well received by the 200 plus audience.

Nina Bhandari, Foreign Correspondent & Vice-President of the Foreign Correspondents’ Association (Australia & South Pacific) said, “Heyy Babyy captures the ambience and flavour that makes this Harbour City such a hit for travelers and migrants. The film showcases the icons, Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, alongside blue skies, green spaces, accessible beaches and the urban flair and modern panache that makes Sydney such a sought after destination.”

Pawan Luthra, CEO from the Indian Link said, “The glitz and glamour of the State Theatre with the who’s who of the Indian Australian community set the scene for a wonderful evening of entertainment at the premiere of Heyy Babyy.  It was so great to see sari clad women lining up on one of Sydney’s busiest streets as they made their way into the State Theatre.”

“The movie itself with its naughtiness showed off the beauty of Sydney to perfection. Whether it was the number of times Sydney was mentioned in the movie or counting the friendly ‘slaps” or cheering as the iconic locations of Sydney flashed across the screen, the audience was glued to their seats for the full movie.”

“Sydney’s streets came alive with colourful sequined costumes, eye-catching dance scenes, declarations of love and infectious music during the film. Famous Sydney locations featured in the film include the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Martin Place Bondi Beach and Darling Harbour,” continued Mr Luthra.

Clint Drieberg, Producer, Radio 2UE, said “While Bollywood legend Shah Rukh Khan does an amazing cameo, the stand out star of Heyy Babyy is the city of Sydney. The spectacular setting of the harbour city adds even more flavour to the sensory overload that is truly a top film. Heyy Babyy will not only make you laugh & cry, but afterwards wanna-be Sydney-siders will be rushing to see the delights of New South Wales for themselves!”

Greater Union is now showing Heyy Babyy at selected cinemas in Sydney and around Australia. For timings, visit www.greaterunion.com.au

The film follows the story of three bachelors Aroush (Akshay Kumar), Tanmay (Riteish Deshmukh) and Al (Fardenn Khan) living in Sydney. Their romantic lives are turned upside down when a baby lands on their doorstop and they go in search of its mother.

The NSW Minister for Tourism, Matt Brown, said “The NSW Government recognises and values the benefits of having a major Bollywood film shot on location in this state.  The film showcases some of Sydney’s best attractions, its natural beauty and appealing lifestyle.  It will create an invaluable promotional opportunity for Sydney and the state of NSW.”

The film hired more local crew and cast than has ever been hired by a Bollywood production company – more than 450.  Heyy Babyy is expected to be seen by almost one billion people, in India and other international markets.