Every Bollywood fan has a dream of meeting his/her favourite star, taking selfies or autograph, getting a chance to wear the actors’ costumes or at least visit the places their beloved stars have gone. Nobody can have it all unless they are star themselves. However, Ramoji Film city gives you an experience that is close enough and that too just in a day.
Visiting Ramoji was something that I had it my bucket list since I understood the films.I am a super Bollywood junkie. I melt when Shahrukh opens his arms to express love, sigh when Prabhas reveals his caring intentions, go mad when Shahid gives his naughty smile, groove when Norah Fatehi swirls, sniff when Alia cries and smile when Deepika smiles. I just do not watch movies I live them and if you are a true fan then you can relate to what I am saying.
I have been to Hyderabad many times with colleagues and friends but never managed to visit Ramoji. I planned a hundred times but due to some reason or other never prevailed. My whole family went and visited recently but I could not join them. It felt as if the movie gods did not want me to visit. Finally, this year in November I got the golden, sorry platinum opportunity to visit my dream city.
I had planned it well ahead and was excited about exploring every nook and corner of Ramoji. I convinced my sister to accompany me as it was her second time but she is also a movie buff like me. Thankfully she agreed. Thereafter, began our journey. We were able to book our bus tickets online from “www.bestbus.in” just a day before our visit, which was very convenient. The confirmation came in the email, as well as SMS, with the driver details to contact for pick-up timings. Since we stayed at Gachibowli, we arranged our pick up time as early as 7:00 am. After booking the tickets, we went to bed early to prepare ourselves for a long and exciting day ahead.
9th Nov 2019, 9 AM is the date etched in my mind forever. The moment I got down the bus and saw the board of Ramoji from far away, with the massive 1666-acre land peeping behind the mist, I started hopping like a 9-year-old kid. It wasn’t a surprise for me seeing millions of people especially kids pouring in groups to see this magnificent celluloid creation. Being a Guinness record holder, it truly justifies the filmy world. Other than the obvious shooting sets, it has various technical explanations from shows, collections of vintage cars, adventurous games and temporary musical and dance programs to keep you entertained the whole day.
The best thing about Ramoji that elevated the experience for me was the professionalism with which the shows were conducted, how well the crowds were managed and cleanliness was maintained. Everything was well coordinated that made the trip a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Ramoji is truly a movie island. It’s a complete package, an experience of a lifetime, a memory close to heart for me. I can say I have lived my dream it is time for yours! Do comment about your favourite place to visit that is yet to be checked out of your bucket list. Hope this write-up will give you the push you need to book your tickets now and go visiting!
