The Great Indian Railway

A steam train puffs its way into the Himalayas, while the sound of its rumble echoes across the sacred Ganges River. Meanwhile, an incredible five million people navigate the bustling Bombay Victoria Terminus every day. Join National Geographic on a journey through one of the world’s most extensive railway networks. Since its inception in 1853, India’s railway has served as a unifying entity, not only bridging distant regions but also bringing together the diverse castes, languages, and religions that make up the nation. This railway boasts a rich history, from the luxurious Palace on Wheels traversing Rajasthan to the charming “toy train” heading to Darjeeling. Unfortunately, the era of steam is fading. At the Black Beauty contest, cherished steam engines are celebrated one last time. From the engineer in the steaming locomotive to the station master in a quiet village, from families traveling to weddings to daily commuters in bustling cities, this grand institution mirrors the essence of India itself. The faces are many, and the stories are diverse, on THE GREAT INDIAN RAILWAY.