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Mumbai, the city of dreams is renowned for one thing, Bollywood. Millions of people visit this city every year with a lot of aspirations in their minds. Film Museum Mumbai is the one-stop destination you must not skip while in Mumbai. Also known as the National Museum of Indian Cinema, the museum offers an exploration of the evolution of Indian cinema, from its silent era beginnings to its contemporary global influence. The museum’s location atop Cumbala Hill adds to its beauty. On your next trip to Mumbai, stopping by and exploring the Film Museum is an experience you can’t forego.
Quick Details
Film Museum Mumbai Address: Gulshan Mahal, 24, Pedder Rd, Cumballa Hill, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400026
Film Museum Mumbai Timings: 11:00 AM to 06:00 PM (Monday closed)
Film Museum Mumbai Ticket price: ₹20 per person
Nearest Railway Station: Grant Road Station
Nearest Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai
Best Time to Visit: October to March
About
Photo: Carolina Almeida / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Film Museum of Mumbai is unlike any other museum you will visit and explore. It is a heaven for movie enthusiasts, especially ones that enjoy knowing about the inception and evolution of cinema in India. The museum is spread across two buildings, the 19th-century Gulshan Mahal and a modern four-story structure. It was inaugurated in 2019 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and has since then become a significant destination for film enthusiasts, students, and tourists alike.
How To Reach
Photo: PIYUSH P PUJARI / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport to the museum is the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, which is roughly 20 km from the museum. It is ideal if you hire a taxi from the airport to get to the museum.
By Rail: If you are taking the train from anywhere in Mumbai, you’d need to get down at Grant Road, which is the nearest station. Even Churchgate or Mumbai Central are two nearby stations you can consider getting down. From the station, autos are available at the museum.
By Road: The Films Division Complex is located in the bustling Peddar Road area, making it accessible from any part of Mumbai. It takes approximately 30-40 minutes to reach the city centre and you can take an auto or taxi to reach there.
Things To Do
1. Explore The Galleries At Gulshan Mahal
Photo: Optical Chemist / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
As previously mentioned, the museum is divided into two parts and the Gulshan Mahal is one of the main parts. This section of the museum is dedicated to the history and evolution of Indian cinema. As you stroll through its well-curated galleries, you can explore the different eras of Indian cinema, from the silent film age to the contemporary times of Bollywood. Also, in this exhibit, you get to explore vintage cameras, projectors, film posters, and costumes that were worn by some of the iconic actors and actresses of the time.
2. Interact With Exhibits In The New Museum Building
Photo: Museu del Cinema / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
After finishing exploring Gulshan Mahal, head to the new museum building. This is primarily the modern section of the museum where you get a glimpse into the filmmaking process and different genres of Indian cinema. In this section, you get to explore interactive and immersive galleries and exhibits. You can learn about various aspects of filmmaking, such as scriptwriting, cinematography, editing, sound design, and special effects. Also, you get to witness behind-the-scenes work that goes into the film creation process, which is quite fascinating.
3. Visit The Children’s Film Studio
Photo: Alessandro Bechis / Wikimedia Commons
One of the highlights for families and younger visitors is the Children’s Film Studio. This section of the museum is designed to engage children in the magic of filmmaking through fun, educational activities. If your child has a knack towards filmmaking and they are intrigued about the making process, a visit to this section of the museum is a must. Kids can learn how movies are made, from the initial concept to the final cut. The interactive exhibits here allow children to try their hand at activities such as operating a camera, editing a scene, or adding sound effects. The whole experience is quite playful.
4. Attend Film Screenings And Events
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This particular activity depends on availability. In some cases, a few films might hold their screening at the museum. So, if you are visiting on a specific day that coincides with a film screening or an event, you can attend that as well, provided that accessibility isn’t an issue. This is a rare opportunity for visitors to watch films that are integral to Indian cinematic history, many of which are difficult to find elsewhere.
Places To Visit Around Film Museum Mumbai
1. Marine Drive
Photo: Sailko / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most beautiful tourist attractions in close vicinity is Marine Drive. Offering spectacular views of the Arabian Sea, Marine Drive is one of those destinations that you can’t miss out on. Locals and tourists alike gather here to enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and snack on street food like bhel puri and pav bhaji. It’s also a great place to witness the blend of Mumbai’s urban skyline with its natural beauty.
Distance From Film Museum: 4.1 Km
Timings: 24*7
2. Gateway Of India
Photo: Dipinder Rainu / Pexels
Another historical destination that you have to visit when in Mumbai is the Gateway of India. This grand archway was constructed in 1924 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. Beyond the stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture, the yellow basalt and intricate design of this place make it a place worth visiting. The Gateway is also the departure point for ferry rides to Elephanta Island, making it a bustling hub of activity.
Distance From Film Museum: 7 Km
Timings: 24*7
3. Colaba Causeway
Photo: لا روسا / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you are in the mood for some shopping and that too at affordable prices, Colaba Causeway is the place to be. Also known as “Fashion Street of Mumbai,” it feels like a thrift store heaven. This vibrant street market is known for its eclectic mix of goods, ranging from trendy clothing and jewellery to antiques, souvenirs, and handicrafts. You can easily spend an hour or two browsing through the stalls, bargaining for deals, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Distance From Film Museum: 6.9 Km
Timings: 10 AM – 10 PM
Where To Stay
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Being such a popular tourist destination, there is no shortage of accommodations in Mumbai. You can find affordable hotels and you can find luxury properties to stay in. Some of the places worth spending your money on are Hotel Nest N Rest – Mumbai, Hotel Pearl View Near US Embassy, HOTEL SHABANA | Colaba | Mumbai and Qubestay Airport Capsule Hotel And Hostel.
Where To Eat
Photo: Lopanayak / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
From vada pav to proper Maharashtrian delicacies and international cuisine, you can find a lot of unique dishes to try in Mumbai. If you get hungry after exploring the Film Museum, there are numerous restaurants around that you can check out including Burma Burma Restaurant, The Bombay Canteen and Canto Café And Bar.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Dariusz Sankowski / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- Book tickets online to avoid long queues.
- Visit early to avoid crowds and spend more time in each exhibit.
- Carry water and light snacks as there are no food outlets inside the museum premises.
- Consider combining your museum visit with nearby attractions.
- Allow plenty of time to explore the exhibits and enjoy the experience.
Film Museum Mumbai is one of the most unique yet intriguing museums you will visit in the city. Loaded with equipment, scripts and a whole lot about Indian cinema, the museum feels like a peek into the history of Indian cinema’s evolution over the decades. Plan a trip with TripXL for the ultimate experience of exploring this place.
Cover Photo: Khushi Vaishya / Wikimedia Commons
