Kushboo finds film inspiration on the Great Ocean Road

Whales, Oddball, Tower Hill and dairy farming were under the microscope as producers scouted the region as part of pre-production for a new international film.

Indian actress, producer and television star Khushbu Sundar (Kushboo) was in the city on Wednesday, her second visit to Australia.  

“You have so many beautiful, unexplored locations here which the Indian continent probably hasn’t seen as yet. We need to build on that,” she said. “We are trying to see how we can bring the Indian film industry to Warrnambool.”

Ms Sundar, who has acted in more than 200 movies and produced a dozen, is currently working on producing a film based on a script written by her husband Sundar C.

“It’s a rom-com involving students,” she said. “It’s a love story set in some beautiful locations.”

While Ms Sundar plans to employ technicians and actors from South India to create the film, she admits she will need local support.

“We are hoping to start filming next year but we need the support from Warrnambool,” she said. “We’ll need local technicians, the hiring of equipment and permits.”

Her first priority was similar to most who venture along the Great Ocean Road to Warrnambool – whales.

“I have been hearing about Warrnambool because we have been trying to find locations where we can see whales,” she said.

Although there is no plan for the mammals to feature in the film, Ms Sundar admits her fondness for the creatures was a drawcard.

“My children and I are whale enthusiasts,” she said. “I was in Melbourne and had an opportunity to come and see the whales as well.”

Ms Sundar is committed to promoting Victoria – she is an honorary member and number one ticket-holder for AFL club Richmond.