As you head from Bengaluru to Mysuru, a few kilometres after the outskirts of the tech city, you pass through a town that is more than meets the eye. Ramanagara gloriously brings together cultural heritage, economic showmanship and iconic cinematic history. Renowned as one of Asia's largest cocoon markets, it plays a crucial role in India's silk industry.
On the other hand, its rugged landscapes have served as the backdrop for one of India's most celebrated films, "Sholay."
The connection between Ramanagara and sericulture goes as far back as the era of Tipu Sultan in the 18th century. It was the Sultan's timely recognition of cocoons in trade that he initiated sericulture, relying on imports from China, in the region. The vision laid down the foundation of what was to become a thriving silk industry in Karnataka.
After centuries, Ramanagara today stands as a testament to his legacy. The town's Government Cocoon Market, a sprawling area covering over two acres, is Asia's largest such market facilitating the sale of about 40,000 to 50,000 kgs of cocoons on a daily basis. Farmers from far flung places, as well as the neighbouring spots in Karnataka, congregate here marking the significance of the site in silk trade.
The community of Ramanagara has a strong stake in the silk industry's prosperity. Sericulture involves thousands of families raising silkworms and mulberry bushes. The method is painstaking: after feeding on mulberry leaves, silkworms form cocoons, which are subsequently collected to produce silk strands. One kg of raw silk is produced from roughly six to seven kgs of cocoons. This silk is subsequently dyed and weaved into textiles.
Notwithstanding obstacles including shifting market pricing and competition from imported silk, the industry's survival is guaranteed by the community's tenacity. The goal of projects like infrastructure upgrades and market makeovers is to support the industry even more.
In addition to silk, Ramanagara turned into a well-known site throughout the country as the main location for the 1975 Bollywood blockbuster "Sholay." Ramesh Sippy, the film's director, chose the town's rough terrain—especially the granite hills of Ramadevarabetta—to represent the made-up village of Ramgarh. In order to make filming easier, the film crew built sets and even a road over the course of two and a half years.
Once the film was released, it ran in the cinema halls straight for a whopping five years, breaking the previously set record by "Mughal-e-Azam" that ran for 286 weeks. "Sholay's" record was only beaten by "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge" that has been running for over 27 years now everyday at the iconic Maratha Mandir in Mumbai.
The association with "Sholay" remains strong in the area to this day. Locals often refer to Ramadevarabetta as "Sholay Betta," and the town has embraced its cinematic legacy, with murals and references celebrating the film's impact. As I was passing through the area quite recently, I was particularly woken up from my torpor of travel by my driver and made aware about the cinematic historicity of the area; the walls of Ramanagara railway station remain painted with iconic shots from the film, a promotion effort by the Railways, I was told.
In addition to being a milestone in film, Ramadevarabetta is also a natural asset. The region was designated as a vulture sanctuary in 2012, safeguarding threatened species such as the Egyptian and long-billed vultures. The area is an important conservation site because these birds find shelter in the cliffs and caverns there.
Modern advancements, however, present risks. Concerns over habitat disruption have arisen as a result of infrastructure improvements, such as highway expansions. Environmentalists support progress that is balanced and protects the biodiversity of the area.
Ramanagara provides tourists with a variety of experiences. The town offers a wide range of activities, from walking up Ramadevarabetta and reliving movie scenes to seeing the busy cocoon market and learning about the complexities of silk manufacture. Its ecological sites also offer chances for environment appreciation and bird viewing.
As Ramanagara develops further, it represents the chimeric spread of modernity and tradition, of film and economy; a place where environmental awareness, cultural heritage and commercial endeavours coexist harmoniously.
Ramanagara is approximately 50 km from Bengaluru, making it easily accessible for travellers. You can reach there by private car, taxi, or by taking a KSRTC bus from Bengaluru.
Alternatively, trains from KSR Station in Bengaluru also connect to Ramanagara.
The ideal time to visit Ramanagara is during the cooler months, from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities like trekking and sightseeing.
Visit Janapada Loka, a vibrant folk museum that celebrates Karnataka’s rural traditions through over 5,000 artifacts, performances, and crafts. For nature lovers, Kanva Reservoir, about 10 km away, provides a peaceful retreat with opportunities for birdwatching and boating. Adventure enthusiasts can also explore Mekedatu and Sangama, scenic river confluences perfect for short treks and nature walks. Lastly, the Ramadevarabetta Vulture Sanctuary—India’s first—offers a chance to spot endangered vultures in their natural habitat, making Ramanagara a well-rounded destination for day trips or weekend escapes.
