Deccan Queen Turns 96 : Passengers Celebrate the Iconic Train’s Birthday at Pune Station
The birthday of the Deccan Queen was celebrated on Platform No. 3 with a ceremonial cake-cutting organized by Harsha Shah, President of the Railway Passenger Group. Passengers traveling from Pune to Mumbai, along with railway officials, participated in the event. On this special day, train drivers were also felicitated in recognition of their service.
Among those present were Hemant Kumar Behera, Public Relations Officer of Central Railway’s Pune Division, Sanjay Kumar, Director of Pune Railway Station, Ravindra Dhumal, Station Manager, and other senior railway staff.
A Legacy of Punctuality and Comfort
Known affectionately as the ‘Queen of the Deccan’, the Deccan Queen has been connecting the cities of Pune and Mumbai since June 1, 1930. For 95 uninterrupted years, it has offered passengers a scenic and reliable journey through the picturesque Khandala Ghats. Its consistent record of on-time departures and arrivals has earned the trust and loyalty of thousands of daily travelers.
The train’s punctuality and comfort have made it the preferred mode of transport between the two cities. It holds a Limca Book of Records entry and is ISO certified, underlining its historic and operational significance.
A Celebration of Tradition
The annual birthday celebration has become a tradition, led by Harsha Shah and the Railway Passenger Group. Each year, on June 1, loyal passengers come together to honor a train that has become more than just a mode of transport—it’s a cultural icon that binds Mumbai and Pune.
Then and Now: The Evolution of the Deccan Queen
When it was first launched, the Deccan Queen ran with just seven coaches and two rakes. Over the decades, in response to growing demand and passenger expectations, it has evolved into a modern, full-service train.
Today, the Deccan Queen operates with a 16-coach configuration, including:
Three air-conditioned chair cars
Nine second-class chair cars
One Vistadome coach
One dining car
One ordinary second-class coach
A guard brake van
A generator car
The train continues to ferry thousands of passengers daily between Mumbai and Pune, offering a blend of heritage, efficiency, and scenic travel that few other services can match.