Mumbai's famous Filmistan Studio, once a pillar of the heyday of Hindi cinema, has now fallen victim to the city's ever-growing real estate aspirations. The studio was founded in 1943 by industry veterans Sasadhar Mukherjee (grandfather of actors Kajol and Rani Mukerji), Ashok Kumar, Rai Bahadur Chunilal, and Gyan Mukherjee.
It grew on a large plot in Goregaon West with vital financial support from the Nizam of Hyderabad, and it went on to establish a legacy in film.
With seven spacious shooting floors, outdoor sets, and permanent installations like gardens and temples, Filmistan covered almost four acres.
Shaheed, Jagriti, Anarkali, Paying Guest, Tumsa Nahin Dekha, and even more recent films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and Ra.One were all produced there. It also helped establish industry icons like filmmaker Nasir Hussain.
However, that legendary chapter is now coming to an end. The purchase of the Filmistan Studio property for Rs 183 crore was confirmed by Arkade Developers on July 3, 2025.
Soon, the property will be developed into a posh residential neighbourhood with two imposing 50-story skyscrapers.
Luxurious apartments with 3, 4, and 5 bedrooms as well as lavish penthouses will be part of the proposed development. The project's total estimated value is Rs 3,000 crore, with an estimated launch date of 2026.
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This sale has sparked widespread concern within the film fraternity. The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) strongly condemned the move and issued a plea to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. “This is about lakhs of film workers’ livelihoods and India’s cinematic heritage,” the association warned, appealing for immediate government intervention to halt the redevelopment.
For many, Filmistan’s closure represents more than the loss of land—it is a farewell to a cherished cultural institution. Its demolition not only erases physical space but also displaces countless memories and legacies built over generations. As Mumbai's skyline rises, yet another piece of Bollywood’s rich history fades into the past.
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