Prayag Film City : The film city in Bengal which is yet to spread its wings – GetBengal story

A story that plays out eerily similar to Shah Rukh Khan’s 2007 film Om Shanti Om, Prayag Film City was supposed to be a dream project with a massive budget. Located 165 km from Kolkata in West Midnapore, Prayag Film City, sometimes referred to as the Midnapore Film City or Chandrakona Film City, is an integrated film city constructed by the Prayag Group. It covers 1,600 acres, making it India's second-largest film city.

Planned to be Asia's first dedicated filmmaking venue. On April 15, 2012, the complex's first phase—created by renowned art director Nitish Roy—opened to the public. Coincidentally, Bollywood actor Shahrukh Khan, who also represents West Bengal's tourism industry, inaugurated the film city. 

But Prayag Film City has mostly fallen into ruins after the CBI probe into the Prayag Group for a chit fund scam in 2014 and a large fire that destroyed parts of the film city in 2019 led to the gradual erosion of the project. 

But despite it being poorly maintained, Prayag Film City is still a fascinating place to explore for film enthusiasts and tourists alike. The film city has a number of film sets designed to look like different eras, ranging from historical monuments to modern urban landscapes. From replicas of the Konark Sun temple, the Petronas towers, Dracula’s palace, sculptures and fountains of Rome, Buckingham Palace, and sets that look like you’re in Jurassic Park, there is something for everyone. Apart from the film sets, you can also catch film screenings and cultural events and performances at the film city. 

That’s not all. There are also rumours of the film city being haunted. If you’re someone who is interested in the supernatural, then you’ll enjoy exploring the ruins of this film city. 

Prayag Film City offers a unique and immersive experience, making it perfect for photoshoots or day trips from Kolkata. If you’re tired of the same old entertainment haunts, of the crowds, and of waiting in lines, then you must plan a visit to Prayag Film City.

Divided into three different areas, the first zone is the filming area, the second is a resort and restaurant area, and the last is an entertainment park that has rides. There is also a miniature world where you will find little versions of the world's famous monuments and structures. 

How to get there: 
By Train: Take the Rupasi Bangla Express that leaves Santragachi at 06:25 AM and reaches Chandrakona Road station at 9:09 AM. From there, the film city is about 5 km. Aranyak Express and Purulia Express are other trains that halt at Chandrakona Road station.

By Road: If you are driving, then take NH16 from Kolkata, then before Kharagpur Road, turn right and take NH14. Continue on NH14 for 40 km to reach the film city.

Just recently, in 2021, the film Hobu Chandra Raja Gobu Chandra Montri was shot in Prayag Film City, starring Saswata Chatterjee. Other Bengali movies shot here are Yoddha and Badsha: The Don.