Mumbai’s Historic Famous Studios Faces Final Curtain Call: 79 Years of Legacy to Make Way for a 69-Storey Luxury Tower

Famous Studios, a pillar of Mumbai’s cinematic heritage, officially shut its doors in October 2025, marking the end of an era for one of India’s oldest film production facilities. Founded in 1946 by JB Roongta, predecessor to Asia's first air-conditioned studio, Famous Studios played a crucial role in shaping Bollywood’s visual and creative landscape for nearly eight decades.

The studios were much more than just a filming location—they served as a creative sanctuary where celebrated filmmakers, artists, and technicians created timeless classics. The Roongta family maintained the studio as a landmark facility, honored with prestigious awards like the Dadasaheb Phalke Award and recognition from the Indian Motion Picture Association.

However, the challenges of maintaining old infrastructure in the ever-evolving cityscape of Mumbai prompted change. The iconic 70,000 square feet plot in Mahalaxmi, which housed Famous Studios, is now earmarked for redevelopment by real estate giant K Raheja Corp. Plans include a high-rise 69-floor residential tower featuring luxury 3- and 4-BHK apartments with sweeping views of the Arabian Sea and Mahalaxmi Race Course.

While the closure marks the physical end of an historic space, the legacy of Famous Studios endures through its contribution to Indian cinema and its influence on generations of filmmakers. The Roongta family aims to continue their involvement in the industry through new office and production spaces in nearby Mumbai locations.

Key Highlights:

Famous Studios, established in 1946, was Asia’s first air-conditioned film studio and a landmark in Mumbai’s film industry.

The studio earned accolades including the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for outstanding contribution to Indian cinema.

Famous Studios saw generations of iconic Bollywood shootings, offering state-of-the-art facilities for film production.

Due to the high cost of maintaining aging infrastructure and urban redevelopment pressures, the studio is being demolished.

The 70,000 sq ft property in Mahalaxmi is being redeveloped into a 69-floor luxury residential skyscraper by K Raheja Corp.

The new development promises plush 3- and 4-BHK apartments with views of the Arabian Sea and Mahalaxmi Race Course.

The Roongta family plans to expand with new post-production and office spaces in other Mumbai locations, preserving the brand legacy.

Industry experts lament the loss of historic studios in Mumbai and emphasize the cultural importance of preserving such landmarks.

Sources: Hindustan Times, Bollywood Hungama, Film Information, Economic Times, Medianews4u, Archonet, and other industry reports