By: DrewMcLachlan
The recent death of 007 star Sir Roger Moore has “deeply shook and saddened” the city of Udaipur,in the state of Rajasthan, with local monarch Maharana Arvind Singh Mewar paying tribute to the late actor for his contribution to the city’s economy and global image.
“The passing away of Sir Roger Moore was received in Udaipur with deep shock, sadness and disbelief,” he said. “He will always have a special place in the heart of Udaipur and has left an indelible imprint in the imagination of the local people.
“He will always be remembered here in Udaipur with affection, deep respect and great fondness. The only James Bond Udaipur recognises is Sir Roger Moore.”
Moore, who died from cancer on May 23, spent much of 1982 in Udaipur while filming Octopussy. Filming took place in several locations around the city, most notably Maharana’s City Palace, the Taj Lake Palace and Jag Mandir Palace.
The decision to film in Udaipur was made after Mewar’s father, Maharana Bhagwat Singh, invited producers Albert Broccoli and Michael Wilson to the city, recognising the potential tourism benefit of bringing Udaipur to the silver screen.
Mewar said: “My father was the moving force behind EON Productions’ decision to film Octopussy in Udaipur. It was the first of a number of Indian and international films to be shot here.
“The impact of Octopussy on the economy of the city both then and continuing through today has been immense. Udaipur has managed to sustain its position as a paradise for filmmakers for 80 years which is a big tribute to people of the city.”
