'Panchayat' Filming Location: Unveiling the Real Village Behind the Hit Show

Monday - 30/06/2025 03:00

Interestingly, the fictional Phulera village is actually filmed in Mahodiya village, located in Sehore district of Madhya Pradesh. What makes this even more fascinating is that many of the props and locations used in the series are not mere sets but real places, often more developed than their on-screen versions.

The Amazon Prime series 'Panchayat' has resonated with audiences through its realistic depiction of rural life and the challenges faced by local governance. While the show is set in the fictional village of Phulera, the filming actually takes place in Mahodiya village, located in the Sehore district of Madhya Pradesh. Many of the locations and props seen on screen are not just sets but actual places within the village. Let's explore some of the fascinating differences and similarities between the reel and real world of 'Panchayat', drawing insights from a video by YouTuber Jenil Variya.

Exploring the real-life inspiration behind the village of Phulera in 'Panchayat'.

The Panchayat Office: A Tale of Two Colors

The Panchayat office, a central location in the series, is depicted with a faded yellow exterior, symbolizing the perceived lack of development in the village administration. However, the real Panchayat office in Mahodiya is currently painted pink. The production team temporarily repaints the office yellow for filming purposes, reverting it back to its original pink hue afterward. This meticulous detail highlights the commitment to authenticity while adapting the location for the show's narrative.

The Panchayat office in 'Panchayat' is yellow on screen, but pink in real life.

Renting the Heart of the Show: The Panchayat Office

The gram panchayat office of Mahodiya village serves as the primary setting for much of the series. Interestingly, the production team rents this space for a nominal fee of just Rs 500 per day. The guest room within the office is where the character Sachiv Ji, portrayed by Jitendra Kumar, carries out his duties.

The 'Panchayat' production team rents the office for a modest Rs 500 per day.

Modern Amenities vs. Rustic Depiction

While the on-screen portrayal of the Panchayat office emphasizes a basic and somewhat underdeveloped environment, the reality is quite different. The actual office is equipped with modern facilities and infrastructure. This deliberate contrast underscores the creative choices made to highlight the challenges faced by rural administrations, even when the physical infrastructure is more advanced than depicted.

Behind the scenes: The actual Panchayat office has modern infrastructure.

Pradhan Ji's Residence: A Close Reflection of Reality

The interiors of Pradhan Ji's house in the series closely resemble the real house in Mahodiya village. The veranda and the terrace, both frequently featured in the show, are faithful recreations of the actual location. A minor alteration involves the main front door, which appears smaller and more old-fashioned on screen compared to its real-life counterpart, contributing to the desired rustic aesthetic.

The interiors of Pradhan Ji’s house are strikingly similar to the real house in Mahodiya.

Fictional Elements: Additions for Narrative Purpose

Not everything seen in 'Panchayat' exists in the real Mahodiya. The memorial library dedicated to Rahul Pandey, a key element introduced in Season 3, was created specifically for the show. Similarly, the handpump near the Panchayat office, often used by Sachiv Ji, is a prop installed for filming and removed after production wraps.