Kireedam’ bridge positioned as the primespot in Kerala’s cinema tourism project

Kerala Tourism is working on big plans to promote cinema tourism in the state. As a
part of this, the ’Kireedam’ bridge in the Thiruvananthapuram suburb Vellayani has been
identified as a prime tourist spot to attract visitors. Kireedam’ bridge is the famed
location of the classic Mohanlal-starrer movie ‘Kireedam’,
The government has given administrative sanction of Rs 1.22 crore to develop the ‘Cine
Tourism Project—Kireedam Palam at Vellayani,’ which is to be completed in 18 months.
The roaring success of the 1989 Malayalam blockbuster Kireedam, featuring legendary
actor Thilakan and Mohanlal as father and son, has brought the narrow bridge at
Vellayani to fame as the locale of emotional scenes of the movie. Since then, the
captivating spot has been frequented by cine buffs and tourists.
Recently, Kerala Tourism brought the picturesque location on board as it goes well with
its Experiential Tourism concept, which promises a wholesome experience for tourists
and holiday makers by treating them to diverse charms of the vibrant culture of the
State.
‘Kireedam’ bridge is the first initiative to take off under Cinema Tourism project with the
other being Bekal Fort in Kasaragod, where Mani Ratnam shot the popular song Uyire…
for his movie Bombay. During a meeting with Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas,
the filmmaker had extended his support to the project and agreed to take part in the
Cinema Tourism programme at Bekal.
There are many picturesque places that became prime locations of all-time hit movies
and the Department of Tourism intends to mark those spots for Cinema Tourism project.
Some of these are closely identified with some of the box office hits. Kerala Tourism is
trying to spot such locales in all districts.
Kerala Tourism authorities expect that the concept of Experiential Tourism will find an
effective impact through Cinema Tourism project.