Christopher Nolan's 'hidden' Indian threads: From Bhagavad Gita in Oppenheimer, to Himesh Patel in The Odyssey

Did you know Christopher Nolan has a deep connection with India? Casting British Indian-origin actor Himesh Patel in his much-awaited film The Odyssey is not the first time he has highlighted this bond with the country. The Oscar-winning filmmaker had already become a talking point among cinephiles for his India links, first by roaming on Mumbai’s bustling streets for his acclaimed sci-fi thriller Tenet, and later through Oppenheimer, which explored physicist J Robert Oppenheimer’s deep admiration for the Bhagavad Gita.

Christopher Nolan’s recently released magnum opus, The Odyssey, has captured everyone’s attention. Viewers are praising it for its larger‑than‑life vision, compelling narrative, and breathtaking visuals. After watching the film, many also noticed British‑Indian actor Himesh Patel in the role of Eurylochus, the trusted second‑in‑command and brother‑in‑law to Odysseus, played by Matt Damon. This marks Patel’s second collaboration with Nolan, after his appearance in the 2020 blockbuster action sci-fi film Tenet.

One of the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful epic biographical dramas of 2023, Oppenheimer, also has an Indian connection, highlighting Nolan’s special bond with India in almost every blockbuster he makes. The film explores the physicist’s deep fascination with the Bhagavad Gita and features a much‑talked‑about scene in which lead actor Cillian Murphy recites a Sanskrit verse. Back then, Nolan's film caused major controversy in India, with the director mentioning the verses of the holy book Bhagavad Gita in a sex scene.

Nolan’s connection to India extends to his decision to cast Indian actress Dimple Kapadia as arms dealer Priya in his 2020 spy thriller Tenet. Kapadia’s casting became a major talking point among fans, as her performance struck a deep chord with Indian audiences and earned immense praise for her poise and commanding screen presence.

Nolan and his crew spent several days in India while filming key sequences in Mumbai. He shot across various locations in South Mumbai to capture the city’s authentic character, including Colaba Causeway, outside the famous Café Mondegar, Breach Candy Hospital, and areas around the iconic Taj Hotel.

The high‑octane action‑thriller sequences for The Dark Knight Rises were shot at the majestic Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, which served as the backdrop for Bruce Wayne’s prison scenes. The fort’s towering walls and vast courtyards were used to depict the infamous underground prison pit where Wayne is held captive and from which he ultimately escapes. The rugged desert landscape of Jodhpur and its ancient architecture provided a dramatic, visually arresting frame for these pivotal moments.