Dr Dadabhai Naoroji Rd // Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol
Our first stop takes us into the thrilling world of Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol. In this film, Ethan Hunt (played by Tom Cruise) races through the streets of Mumbai in pursuit of the elusive arms dealer Brij Nath, marking the Hollywood debut of Bollywood star Anil Kapoor. As the cars speed through the chaos, viewers catch a glimpse of the magnificent Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST), Mumbai's grand Victorian-era railway station and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the most unforgettable moments in the Bollywood movie Ra.One takes place at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. In this heart-pounding climax, superstar Shah Rukh Khan, portraying the heroic game character G.One, races to stop a runaway train as it hurtles through the station. Just when disaster seems inevitable, he rescues Sonia at the last moment, mere seconds before the iconic terminus is destroyed in a breathtaking explosion of visual effects.
Under the towering dome of this beautiful Victorian Gothic train station, Jamal Malik (Dev Patel) and Latika (Freida Pinto) finally meet again in Slumdog Millionaire, ending up dancing to ‘Jai Ho’ in the film's legendary finale.
Flora Fountain and the surrounding area // Ghajini
Flora Fountain is one of the city's most elegant and historic landmarks, making it a favorite backdrop for filmmakers. Located at the busy intersection of Mahatma Gandhi Road and Veer Nariman Road, this 19th-century monument, built in 1864, has witnessed countless cinematic moments, from romantic encounters to dramatic chases.
Horniman Circle // Hasee Toh Phasee
In the heart of Mumbai's bustling Fort district lies Horniman Circle, a leafy colonial-era gem. Surrounded by grand neoclassical buildings like the Asiatic Society Library and the Town Hall, this circular garden has long been a favorite location for filmmakers looking to capture the city's old-world elegance and vibrant energy.
The Asiatic Society // Salaam-e-Ishq
Standing atop the grand staircase of the Asiatic Society Library, you get a sweeping view over Horniman Circle. It’s easy to see why filmmakers love this location: the neoclassical columns, sweeping steps, and colonial charm make it look like a slice of London right in the heart of India.
Cafe Mondegar // Tenet
Christopher Nolan’s Tenet brought high-octane Hollywood action to the heart of Mumbai. One location used was the iconic Cafe Mondegar on Colaba Causeway, known for its vibrant murals by renowned artist Mario Miranda. It’s just outside the cafe where The Protagonist (John David Washington) calls his local contact (Robert Pattinson), with the iconic Metro House visible in the frame. The tower that the Protagonist looks at is actually located in another part of Mumbai, in Breach Candy.
Royal Bombay Yacht Club // Tenet
Filming Tenet at the Royal Bombay Yacht Club in Mumbai was no small feat. This exclusive, members-only club, founded in 1846, is one of India’s most prestigious gentlemen’s clubs — and until Nolan’s visit, no film crew had ever been allowed inside its historic walls.
Gateway Of India Mumbai // Hero No. 1
As you wander along Mumbai’s bustling waterfront, one landmark immediately captures your attention: the Gateway of India. Built in the striking Indo-Islamic style is a favorite backdrop for filmmakers.
Gateway Of India Mumbai // Photograph
The Gateway of India also played a memorable role in Photograph. In the film, struggling street photographer Rafi (Nawazuddin Siddiqui) convinces the shy Milani (Sanya Malhotra) to let him take her photograph, sparking a delicate connection that transforms them both.
Gateway Of India Mumbai // Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol
In Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol, there is a brief shot of the Gateway of India to establish the setting of Mumbai. However, here's the twist: most of the scenes set in ‘Mumbai’ were not actually filmed in the city. Hollywood magic took over, with various locations around the globe standing in for the Indian metropolis.
