Gully Boy: Filming the Streets of Mumbai's Rap Revolution in Real Locations
Gully Boy, the electrifying 2019 film that captured India's burgeoning underground rap scene, wasn't just a story - it was a sonic and visual experience that placed you right in the heart of Mumbai's vibrant streets. But where exactly were these scenes filmed? Let's take a tour of the actual locations that brought Gully Boy's story to life:
Dharavi Slums: The Heart of the Gully
No Gully Boy location list is complete without Dharavi. This sprawling labyrinth, one of Asia’s largest slums, became the authentic backdrop for Murad’s (Ranveer Singh) life. The film doesn’t stop portraying Dharavi’s bustling energy and harsh realities, making you feel the pulse of the gully [informal Hindi word for street/alleyway] where rap battles and dreams simmer.
Foot Over Bridge & Kurla Station: Transit Hubs of Aspiration
The iconic footbridge over the railway tracks in Dharavi is a recurring feature of the film. It’s a familiar sight for Mumbaikars, a place of transit and connection. We see Murad navigate these crowded spaces, highlighting the constant movement and struggle that shapes his world. Similarly, Kurla Station, another central Mumbai transit hub, finds its way into the film, showcasing the city’s frenetic energy.
Beyond Dharavi: Mumbai’s Diverse Canvas
Gully Boy isn’t confined to Dharavi. Cafe 12, a charming Parsi cafe in the city, becomes the unexpected stage for a contentious showdown between Safeena (Alia Bhatt) and another girl. In contrast, the trendy Kala Ghoda area showcases a different side of Mumbai, where Murad and his friends steal a car in a scene pulsating with youthful rebellion.
Wadi Bunder & Atria Mall: Where Inspiration & Dreams Collide.
Wadi Bunder, Mumbai’s historic dock area, becomes the ground for a pivotal scene. MC Sher (Siddhant Chaturvedi), Murad’s mentor, hones his rap skills here. The weathered port backdrop adds raw energy to their exchange, emphasizing the power of words and music. On the other end of the spectrum, Atria Mall, a swanky shopping complex, pulsates with the rhythm of spray paint cans in a scene where Murad and his friends express themselves artistically.
Vinayak Ganesh Vaze College: Where Education Meets Hip-Hop
The film beautifully portrays the influence of college life on Murad’s musical awakening. Vinayak Ganesh Vaze College is the location for a scene where he’s introduced to the world of rap by witnessing MC Sher perform at a college festival. This sparks a fire within Murad, etching the first verse of his extraordinary journey.
So, the next time you’re in Mumbai, keep an eye out for these locations – they’re not just backdrops but characters in their own right, adding depth and authenticity to Gully Boy’s powerful story.