Offbeat Alert: All You Need To Know About Koraput, Odisha's Emerging Film Destination

Koraput is a small town in the South Indian state of Odisha. It is quickly becoming a favourite among celebrated filmmakers like SS Rajamouli and regional production houses, alike. The pristine landscapes of Koraput provide breathtaking backdrops of cinematic shots for various film directors with many locations spread across the town.

Film Fraternity's Favourite

It is currently drawing eyeballs because Tollywood star Mahesh Babu and Bollywood icon Priyanka Chopra will be shooting for their next 1,000-crore-budget film in the town. The film is expected to be action-packed feature. The 500-crew movie will be shot across locations in the town. These include Deomali, Talamali, and Machkund. The first schedule will reportedly be shot in Talamal. 

This is only another addition to the list of films that have been shot in Koraput as the location is quickly becoming favourite among filmmakers, directors, and production houses across various film industries.

Last year, a big-budget multilingual film starring South Indian superstar, Anushka Shetty was extensively shot in the town. The stunning landscapes of Deomali, Jeypore, Lamataput, and Kolab were put to use during the shoot of the film. 

The location is a favourite for regional filmmakers, too. Five Odia films were shot in Koraput last year. The cooperation of locals and authorities coupled with the breathtaking views have proved to provide a seamless experience for actors and filmmakers alike.

But, Where Is Koraput?

Renowned as a paradise for nature lovers, Koraput is located along the Eastern Ghats of Odisha. With its picturesque landscape featuring rolling hills, dense forests, and pristine streams and waterfalls, a rich tribal culture, sprawling coffee fields, and significant temples, this small town has many scenic sights.

Brief History

Modern-day Koraput is the result of immense history. Originally formed as a part of various kingdoms across dynasties—its geographical isolation and thick forests doubling as alluring locations—no permanent ruling dynasty could ever form their base here. Till the 13th century, Koraput was a centre of Jain culture. Then, the entire region would be ruled by the Suryavanshi dynasty based out of Nandapur, followed by Narayanapatna, and finally from Jeypore. By the mid 19th century, it came under direct British rule, with the Raja of Jeypore becoming one of the largest Zamindars of the Madras Presidency. The entire estate eventually became a part of Visakhapatnam District.

Fast forward to April 1, 1936. That year, the Odia speaking parts of the Vishakapatnam District were carved out to merge into modern-day Odisha. A new subdivision at Jeypore was created in the mid 1960s. In 1992, the district was further sectioned into four parts: Nabarangpur, Malkangiri, Rayagada, and Koraput.

Koraput Today

Today, Koraput houses Odisha’s highest peak at Deomali (1672 m). It also attracts travellers to Duduma waterfalls, which plunge from a height of 540 ft. Major hydroelectric and irrigation projects—such as Kolab, Muran, Telengiri and Jolaput—also find a spot here. Religious folks often throng towards the Shiva temple at Gupteshwar.

On the cultural front, Koraput is the birthplace of the GI tagged Kotpad fabrics, a vegetable-dyed fabric woven in pit looms by the tribal communities. Koraput Tribal Coffee is also loved by many. Other handicrafts terracotta and clay toys, bamboo crafts, stone carved souvenirs, paddy craft, patta chitra art, costume jewellery, and more.

Places Of Interest

Despite being a small town, Koraput has flooded with noteworthy attractions. Deomali, for instance, is an idyllic spot for aero gliding and trekking expeditions. The whirlpool at Gulmi, formed by the Kolab river, also draws crowds. The Duduma waterfall, also known as Machkunda, peaks from amid hills, making it a picturesque tourist destination. At Dumuriput, one can find the state's highest Hanuman statue; at Maliguda, the region's highest tunnel bridge; and even old ruin forts at Tikiragarh.

Authorities and town administration have recognised the potential of the town. The expansion of this town as a shooting destination has proven to be a blessing for the locals who receive employment opportunities as guides, and logistical support staff roles among others.

This has also allowed the town to be known by many others, and thus expanding tourism to the lovely town of Koraput.