Koraput, Nov 13 (UDN): Once associated with Maoist violence and security concerns, Odisha’s Koraput district is gradually building a new identity as a sought-after destination for filmmakers. Its picturesque hills, dense forests, valleys and scenic landscapes are drawing film crews from the Odia, Bollywood and Telugu industries, putting the region in the spotlight.

 Representational Image 

The changing perception of Koraput is opening up fresh possibilities for the district, with film productions bringing visitors, creating local opportunities and showcasing its natural beauty to audiences beyond Odisha.

Odia actor Babushaan Mohanty is currently shooting for his upcoming film Nabarupa in a village near Pottangi, with the picturesque Deomali hills providing the backdrop. The production is unfolding amid tribal settlements and traditional homes, giving the film an authentic rural setting.

For local residents, the presence of a film crew and familiar faces from the screen has become an exciting experience. Kuji Jani, a resident of the area, said seeing Babushaan in person was a moment of happiness.

“We had seen Babushaan on television, but seeing him in person made us very happy. We had never imagined that we would get to witness a film shoot like this,” Jani said.

From security concerns to cinematic appeal

Koraput’s emergence as a filming destination reflects a gradual shift in how the region is perceived. Areas that were once considered difficult to access because of Maoist activities are now receiving film crews, supported by improvements in security, connectivity and cooperation from local communities.

The district offers filmmakers a wide range of natural settings. Deomali’s mist-covered hills, the forests surrounding Gupteswar and the valleys of Lamtaput provide varied backdrops for different genres and visual narratives.

The association of the region with prominent film projects, including Pushpa, Anushka Shetty-starrer Ghaati and SS Rajamouli’s Varanasi, has also helped draw attention to Koraput and its cinematic potential.

Actor Sumanta Sahu said the district had undergone a significant change in perception.

“Koraput was once known as a Maoist-affected region but has now emerged as a film hub,” he said.

Actor Rabindra Mishra believes that choosing locations within Odisha can also contribute to the state’s development. “Koraput has several beautiful locations, and shooting Odia films here instead of outside Odisha would contribute to the state’s development,” he said.

Film shoots bring local communities into the spotlight

Beyond the visual appeal, film productions could help connect remote communities with the wider world. Local participation, demand for services and increased visibility may create opportunities for residents and businesses, while encouraging more visitors to explore the district.

Production associate Bijay Patra said film projects could help change perceptions about places that people once avoided because of security concerns.

“People earlier hesitated to visit these places due to fear of Maoist activities, but films will now help showcase the beauty of the region to a wider audience,” he said.

Infrastructure key to sustaining the momentum

Despite its growing appeal among filmmakers, Koraput still faces infrastructure-related challenges. Better facilities, logistical support and adequate arrangements for production teams will be important if the district is to attract regular film projects.

The larger opportunity lies in converting temporary film shoots into long-term benefits for the local economy. Improved tourism facilities, stronger connectivity and greater participation of local communities could help translate the growing interest into employment and business opportunities.

Koraput’s natural landscapes have long been among Odisha’s most striking attractions. As filmmakers increasingly discover the region, the district has an opportunity to move beyond its troubled past and establish itself as a prominent destination for cinema and tourism. Whether this emerging film-driven interest can deliver sustained economic gains will depend on how effectively the region addresses its infrastructure needs.