Train sequences have given Bollywood some of its most iconic moments. From Raj chasing Simran in Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge (DDLJ), and Shah Rukh Khan’s grand entry in Chennai Express, to emotional journeys
in films like PK, we all have that one favourite train moment. But while watching this scenes, a question must have echoed through the minds of many: are these scenes really shot inside running trains with passengers onboard? The answer is no.
Most Bollywood train scenes are filmed at a fake railway station and train setup inside Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad. It is a controlled and purpose-built shooting location used extensively by filmmakers.
Inside Bollywood’s Fake Railway Station
The elaborate set includes a stationary train with engines and limited coaches, a booking counter, waiting rooms, and a customizable platform. Designed to look authentic on camera, the setup allows filmmakers to mimic real-life train stations without the logistical challenges of real trains.
A video recently going viral on Instagram offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at this setup. In the clip, the user explains, “This is a fake railway station and the train doesn’t go anywhere. There is no train here. There are no tracks under the train. There are tube tyres. Bollywood movies are shot on this train.”
The user further points out that while real trains have long coaches, the set usually features only four compartments, enough to sell the illusion on screen. The movement seen through train windows is often created using green screens and visual effects.
From Steam Engines to Custom Station Boards
The set also includes a steam engine, commonly used to shoot old movies. Interestingly, the engine is made of wood, unlike real trains, which use metal. Station name boards are also interchangeable. The current one reads “Egmore Railway Station,” and the next one can be changed to suit the script.
Social Media Reacts
The internet users were quick to react, with many calling the fake setup beautiful. Others added that scenes of television serials like Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashma were also filmed on this train.
“I love this place, really beautiful,” read a comment.
Another shared, “Hyderabad Ramoji Film City gaya tha mai.”
“Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashma Me Bhi Tha Jab Bapuji Mumbai Aye The pehli baar,” said a user.
An individual stated, “Chennai Express actual train me shoot hui thi nakli me nahi.”
“Ham jaa ke a chuke the wahan pushpa 2 shooting ho rha tha,” added another.
Filmmakers rent the space, modify it as needed and shoot scenes without disrupting real railway operations.
