Filmistan Studios, one of Mumbai’s oldest and most iconic film studios, has been officially sold to Arkade Developers for Rs 183 crore. The transaction was registered on July 3, marking the end of an era for a studio that helped shape the golden age of Hindi cinema. Once a thriving base for actors, technicians, and production houses, the Goregaon West property is now set to be redeveloped into ultra-luxury residential towers.Founded in 1943 by Sasadhar Mukherjee, grandfather to Kajol and Rani Mukerji, along with actor Ashok Kumar, Gyan Mukherjee, and Rai Bahadur Chunilal, Filmistan Studios emerged from a split with Bombay Talkies and quickly became a cornerstone of Hindi filmmaking. Back in the day, studios like Filmistan weren’t just shooting spaces, they were full-fledged production houses employing actors and crew on monthly salaries.AICWA urges Devendra Fadnavis to interveneIn the wake of the acquisition, the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has written an open letter to Maharashtra’s CM Devendra Fadnavis, urging him to halt the demolition and protect what they call a “symbol of cinematic legacy.” The association has called for a Government Resolution (G.R.) to preserve the studio as a public cultural asset.“Filmistan Studio… has been a workplace for lakhs of technicians, artists, junior artists, and workers… It is not just a physical structure; it is a symbol of cinematic legacy and the sweat and hard work of the working class behind the camera,” the AICWA letter read.
The association further warned that the loss of Filmistan, and other heritage studios at risk, would severely impact employment opportunities for daily wage workers, technicians, and artists who form the backbone of the entertainment industry.“This is not just a fight to save land—it is a fight to protect dignity, heritage, and the livelihood of the backbone of our industry. Filmistan Studio was built with the blood, sweat, and dedication of workers… Unfortunately, the current owners have chosen profit over people.”Filmistan Studios to be turned into luxury towersFollowing the acquisition, Arkade Developers announced plans to redevelop the four-acre SV Road plot into a high-end residential project. The project will reportedly feature 3, 4, and 5 BHK residences and exclusive penthouses across two 50-storey towers. With a projected gross development value of Rs 3,000 crore, the project is slated for a tentative launch in 2026.Known for its sound stages, outdoor sets, and central location, Filmistan was once a go-to destination for Bollywood films, television shows, and ad shoots. However, with newer, tech-equipped studios sprouting across the city, Filmistan gradually fell out of favour.
