Bollywood comes to Chiang Mai and it’s more than just a film screening

Chiang Mai University (CMU) is about to make Chiang Mai feel a lot more like Bollywood this weekend – and before you ask, yes there’s more to it than just the movies. 

Organised in cooperation with the Consulate of India and Chiang Mai Wellbeing Social 

Enterprise, the Indian Studies Center at CMU presents an Indian Film and Cultural Evening on March 28 – a full day of cultural exchange running from 1pm to 9.30pm at CMU Cultural Square. 

In true Bollywood style, there is, of course, a major motion picture screening of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. But arrive before the main event and get into a multi-sensory experience that will let you taste, feel and fully immerse yourself in the world of Bollywood. 

The Lanna India Bar is serving masala chai, made with Chiang Mai wild honey alongside Lanna-India fusion tapas – an unexpected but bound-to-be-delicious combo. 

There's also a sound bath with Tibetan singing bowls, perfect for anyone who has been meaning to try one without committing to a full wellness retreat. Throw in henna art, Indian spice craft workshops, traditional Indian games and a family corner and it’s a treat for families and friends alike.

Love it hate it, the standout activity of the evening (aside from the films) is an AI Bollywood Experience, where you can dress in traditional Bharat attire including sarees and lehengas and have your photo transformed into a full Bollywood moment – no acting experience required. 

You can also submit a photo of yourself in traditional Bharat attire ahead of the event on (before March 27) to enter a photo contest – whether it's a real outfit or AI generated is entirely up to you. The prize: a one-night stay for two at Insda Wellness Resort, including dinner, breakfast and an Ayurvedic Shirodhara Therapy spa treatment.

And then there’s the main event as the evening wraps up with the original reason you came – a screening of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, starring Hrithik Roshan, Farhan Akhtar, Abhay Deol and Katrina Kaif. Filmed across stunning locations in Spain, it's a Bollywood film about friendship, adventure and the existential questions you've been putting off. Free entry and open to everyone, there’s a good chance you’ll want to book flights to India for more straight after.  

March 28. Free entry. CMU Cultural Square. 1pm-9.30pm