At the prestigious HORECFEX 2026 held at the Ariyana Convention Centre in Danang, Vietnam, acclaimed Bollywood filmmaker, cultural ambassador, and visionary producer Captain Rahul Bali delivered a compelling keynote address on the economic impact of the film industry on tourism. Known for pioneering India-Vietnam cinematic relations and producing major Bollywood films like "Love in Vietnam" and "SILAA," Bali captivated a global audience comprising industry leaders and stakeholders.
Captain Bali emphasized the powerful synergy between cinema and tourism, illustrating how films serve as global ambassadors for destinations, cultures, and experiences. He highlighted that cinematic storytelling can significantly enhance a location's international visibility, sparking increased tourism and economic activity.
Using his cross-cultural film projects as examples, Bali explained how movies create dreamlike experiences that inspire audiences to visit showcased locations. He called for collaboration between filmmakers and tourism boards, proposing film-friendly policies and incentives to attract international productions, particularly in scenic and culturally rich destinations like Danang.
The event attracted numerous dignitaries including Vietnam Tourism Chairman Nguyen Trung Khanh, Danang Tourism Association Chairman Cao Tri Dung, and other global hospitality and tourism experts. Bali's address underscored the growing importance of cross-industry partnerships in promoting sustainable economic development through creative industries.