Mumbai's Iconic Filmistan Studio Sold for ₹183 Crore: A New Era Begins
Mumbai’s historic Filmistan Studio, a cornerstone of the Indian film industry for 85 years, has been sold to Arcade Developers for ₹183 crore. The studio, known for producing iconic films and shows, will be replaced by a ₹3000 crore residential project.
Filmistan StudioMumbaiReal EstateIndian CinemaHeritageReal Estate MumbaiJul 07, 2025
Filmistan Studio was initially owned by Tolaram Jalan's wife, Nina Jalan. The recent sale has sparked a significant reaction, with the All India Cine Workers Association demanding an immediate halt to the project. They have written a letter to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, highlighting that thousands of workers associated with the studio earn their livelihood from it. The sale of the studio could create a crisis for these workers.
The closure of Filmistan Studio is not an isolated incident. In recent years, three other significant studios in Mumbai have also been sold: Raj Kapoor's RK Studio, actress Kamala Amrohi's Kamalistan Studio in Jogeshwari, and now Filmistan. This trend signals a shift in the film industry, where traditional filmmaking methods are giving way to modern practices.
The establishment of Filmistan Studio in the 1940s is a fascinating story. Shashadhar Mukherjee and Ashok Kumar, who then worked at Bombay Talks, left the company after the death of its founder, Himansu Rai. They embarked on their own venture, and the Nizam of Hyderabad, Osman Ali Khan, provided financial support for the construction of the studio. This support was crucial in bringing the ambitious project to life.
The walls of Filmistan have witnessed many memorable moments in Indian cinema. The popular song 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' from the film '2 States' (2014), 1940s hits like 'Anarkali', 'Munimji', 'Naagin', 'Tumsa Nahin Dekha', and 'Paying Guest', among many other classics, were all produced at this studio. Additionally, the first episode of Karan Johar’s chat show ‘Koffee with Karan’ was shot here, and several seasons of reality shows like ‘Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa’ and ‘Dance Plus’ were also filmed at Filmistan.
The sale of Filmistan Studio marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter. The studio will be demolished to make way for a luxurious residential project estimated to cost ₹3000 crore. While this development promises modern amenities and high-end living, it also signifies the loss of a significant cultural landmark. The film industry and its workers are deeply concerned about the impact of this change, and the debate over the future of traditional filmmaking continues.
Despite the controversy, the sale of Filmistan Studio highlights the evolving landscape of the film industry. As technology advances and new methods of production emerge, the role of traditional studios is changing. The legacy of Filmistan, however, will continue to be remembered as a pivotal part of Indian cinema’s rich history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Filmistan Studio in the Indian film industry?
Filmistan Studio has been a cornerstone of the Indian film industry for 85 years, producing numerous iconic films, serials, and reality shows. It has been a hub for many memorable moments in Indian cinema.
Who founded Filmistan Studio and when?
Filmistan Studio was founded by Shashadhar Mukherjee and Ashok Kumar in 1940. The Nizam of Hyderabad, Osman Ali Khan, provided financial support for the construction of the studio.
Why is the sale of Filmistan Studio controversial?
The sale of Filmistan Studio is controversial because it marks the end of an era and the potential loss of a significant cultural landmark. The All India Cine Workers Association has raised concerns about the impact on workers' livelihoods.
What will replace the Filmistan Studio?
The Filmistan Studio will be replaced by a luxurious residential project estimated to cost ₹3000 crore. This project is being developed by Arcade Developers.
What other famous studios in Mumbai have been sold recently?
In recent years, three other significant studios in Mumbai have been sold: Raj Kapoor's RK Studio, actress Kamala Amrohi's Kamalistan Studio in Jogeshwari, and now Filmistan Studio.
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