Mani Ratnam Extends Support to Kerala's Cinema Tourism Project

Kerala, July 2023: In an exciting development aimed at promoting the breathtaking tourist spots of Kerala that have served as the backdrop for numerous iconic films, celebrated filmmaker Mani Ratnam has pledged his support to the state’s tourism department, lending his endorsement to the initiative known as Kerala’s ‘Cinema Tourism Project’.

During a meeting with Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas on Tuesday, Mani Ratnam expressed his commitment to showcasing the locations that have left an indelible mark on people’s hearts through their appearances in blockbuster hits.

One of the key highlights of this collaboration will be a special event held at the magnificent Bekal Fort in Kasaragod district, where several captivating scenes from Mani Ratnam’s acclaimed film ‘Bombay’ were filmed. By leveraging the allure of cinema, Kerala aims to attract a larger influx of travellers to these mesmerizing locations.

Mani Ratnam, known for his awe-inspiring song sequences set against Kerala’s scenic landscapes, lauded the pioneering nature of the project. He also fondly reminisced about how Kerala’s captivating locales have provided the backdrop for numerous cinematic masterpieces he has directed.

The support and presence of Mani Ratnam in this endeavour have been hailed as a significant boost for the Cinema Tourism project by Minister Riyas, who is also the son-in-law of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The inclusion of Bekal Fort, which played a pivotal role in ‘Bombay’ starring Aravind Swami and Manisha Koirala, marks a key milestone for this initiative. Additionally, the fort holds significance in another Malayalam film, ‘Unaroo’. To commemorate the launch of the project, Mani Ratnam will be present at Bekal Fort alongside the actors from ‘Bombay’.

This ambitious project holds immense promise for both the film industry and the tourism sector in Kerala. By capitalizing on the allure of famous film locations, the state aims to not only attract cinephiles but also provide a unique experience for travellers who wish to explore the enchanting landscapes showcased in their favourite movies.

The partnership between Mani Ratnam and the Cinema Tourism project is expected to unlock the untapped potential of Kerala’s film tourism industry, putting it firmly on the global map and captivating the imaginations of travellers from around the world. With each film capturing the essence of Kerala’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, this collaboration promises to be a win-win for both the film fraternity and the state’s tourism sector.