Bollywood has always had a special love affair with Indian railways, often using the stunning, scenic stations and moving trains to capture dramatic, romantic, and emotional moments. From Shah Rukh Khan to Shahid Kapoor, various stars have filmed memorable scenes at real railway stations across the country. Here’s a look at seven famous films that showcased the charm of Indian railway stations:
1. Aradhana (1969) – Shimla
One of the most iconic songs in Bollywood history, “Mere Sapno Ki Rani Kab Aayegi Tu”, was filmed at the picturesque railway station in Shimla. This song features Rajesh Khanna and Sharmila Tagore, with the Darjeeling Himalayan toy train providing a backdrop to the song’s magical visuals. The snow-covered landscapes of Shimla made it a perfect fit for the romantic vibe of the film.
2. Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge (1995) – Apta Railway Station
The iconic romantic finale of Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge (DDLJ), where Kajol’s father lets her hold Shah Rukh Khan’s hand, was filmed at Apta Railway Station in Raigad, Maharashtra. This location has become an unforgettable part of Indian cinematic history and is now a go-to spot for fans of the classic film.
3. Dil Se (1998) – On a Moving Train
In one of Bollywood’s most thrilling music videos, Shah Rukh Khan and Malaika Arora grooved to “Chaiyya Chaiyya” atop a moving train. While permission to shoot at Ooty railway station was denied, the song became an instant hit with its high-energy dance sequence filmed on a real, moving train, showcasing the beauty of India’s railway system in the process.
4. Swades (2004) – Apta Railway Station
In Swades: We The People, one of the most emotionally charged scenes takes place at Apta Railway Station, where Shah Rukh Khan, playing the role of an NRI, reflects on his nation and its issues. The simplicity and rawness of the station add depth to the film’s narrative, helping convey its powerful message.
5. Parineeta (2005) – Apta Railway Station
Saif Ali Khan and Vidya Balan’s Parineeta features a memorable scene from the song “Kasto Maja Hai Railaiyama”, which was filmed at Apta Railway Station. This station also appeared in Swades, making it a familiar location for Bollywood fans. The quaint, scenic railway setting added an air of nostalgia and charm to the film.
6. Jab We Met (2007) – Kalka-Shimla Railway Station
In Jab We Met, the train journey is integral to the film’s plot, as Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan’s characters meet and form an unexpected bond. Several key scenes were filmed at the Kalka–Shimla Railway Station, one of India’s most famous hill stations, and the Ratlam Railway Station in Madhya Pradesh, where the plot takes a dramatic twist.
7. Chennai Express (2013) – Vasco da Gama Railway Station
In Chennai Express, Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone embark on a thrilling adventure, with train journeys forming an integral part of the narrative. While many scenes were shot at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad, the film also featured real shots taken at Vasco da Gama Railway Station in Goa, bringing authenticity and depth to the movie’s train sequences.
Conclusion: Indian railway stations are more than just transport hubs in Bollywood films; they are often the backdrop for unforgettable moments in cinematic history. Whether it’s the romantic allure of DDLJ’s Apta Station or the high-octane energy of Chaiyya Chaiyya atop a moving train, these locations hold a special place in the hearts of Bollywood fans. With these memorable scenes, Bollywood continues to celebrate the beauty and vastness of India’s railway system
