From the iconic train scene in Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) to Rajkumar Hirani's PK, Bollywood has repeatedly turned to the Indian Railways' Apta station for its film shoots. This small station, located in Maharashtra, has become a favorite among filmmakers for its vintage charm and accessibility.
Central Railway's Earnings from Film Shoots
Central Railway has reported earning approximately Rs 2.29 crore from nearly 30 film and web-series shoots over the last three financial years. The revenue comes from location fees, logistics, and other services provided to production crews.
Why Apta Station?
Apta station offers a blend of old-world architecture and functional railway infrastructure, making it ideal for period films and contemporary stories alike. Its proximity to Mumbai also reduces travel costs for production teams.
- DDLJ (1995) featured the station in its iconic train chase scene.
- PK (2014) used the station for key sequences involving train travel.
- Several web series, including Sacred Games, have also shot here.
Impact on Local Economy
The film shoots have provided a boost to the local economy, with crew members staying in nearby hotels and purchasing supplies from local vendors. Central Railway has also benefited from the additional revenue, which helps maintain station infrastructure.
Future Prospects
With the growing demand for authentic locations, Apta station is expected to remain a popular choice for filmmakers. Central Railway plans to streamline the booking process to attract more shoots.
