Koraput, Nov 10: The picturesque landscapes of Koraput district continue to captivate filmmakers from across the country. Once a popular destination for Odia cinema, the district has now become a favorite location for South Indian filmmakers, particularly from the Telugu and Tamil industries.

Recently, celebrated director S. S. Rajamouli set up camp in Koraput for the shooting of his upcoming high-budget film SSBM 29. Accompanying him were superstar Mahesh Babu and Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra, whose presence in the region created quite a buzz among locals and film enthusiasts alike.

Currently, shooting is underway for the Telugu film “Comrade Kalyan,” which is based on the lives of Naxalites. The production team is not only filming in the scenic locales of the district but is also providing opportunities for local youth to act alongside the lead cast.

Directed by Janaki Ram Marella and produced by Venkat Krishna, the film features Telugu actor Sree Vishnu in the lead role opposite Malayalam actress Mahima Nambiar. Major portions of the film have been shot at Deomali, Talimali, Kaliamali, Jeypore, Semiliguda, the Koraput Jagannath Temple, and Duduma.

According to Gautam, a youth from Semiliguda assisting the production team, filming will continue for another 10 to 12 days across various parts of the district. He noted that local people are actively participating in the shoot and benefiting from employment opportunities created by the project.

Local actress Pinky Das, who secured a role in the movie, expressed her excitement, saying that the opportunity has been a dream come true. She added that the film’s production has brought not only recognition to local artists but also economic benefits to the community.

With the growing interest of South Indian filmmakers, Koraput is steadily gaining recognition as an emerging film destination, adding a new chapter to its cultural and cinematic identity.