Food Poisoning Hits Bollywood Film Unit in Leh, Over 100 Hospitalised

Srinagar: A Bollywood film crew shooting in Ladakh was struck by a case of suspected mass food poisoning, leaving more than 100 members of the unit hospitalised in Leh late Sunday evening, officials confirmed.

Crew members suddenly fell ill with vomiting, abdominal pain, and headaches after meals served on location. They were rushed to the S.N.M. (Sajal Narbu Memorial) Hospital, where doctors identified it as a case of food poisoning. Nearly 600 people had eaten at the site before the outbreak.

“Food samples have been collected for detailed analysis to identify the cause,” an official said, adding that accountability will be fixed once laboratory results are available.

Hospital authorities said the situation was quickly brought under control after an emergency mobilisation of medical staff. Police were also deployed to ease the pressure on the overcrowded emergency ward and prevent panic. Doctors confirmed that all patients are out of danger, and most have been discharged after treatment.

The episode has drawn attention to food safety standards at large film shoots, especially in remote regions like Ladakh where medical infrastructure is limited and terrain poses logistical challenges.

Authorities have not disclosed the name of the film or whether any well-known Bollywood actors were among those affected.

Ladakh, famous for its dramatic landscapes, has been a popular backdrop for Bollywood productions for decades. Films such as 3 Idiots, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, Dil Se, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Lakshya, and the classic Haqeeqat have all been shot in the region, boosting its profile as a cinematic destination.

While investigations continue, the incident has underscored the need for stricter hygiene and safety checks at film locations in high-altitude areas that host large crews.