Kerala to promote tourist spots through films

The Kerala government has launched a new initiative under its 'Visit Kerala campaign' to join hands with the movie industry for film tourism, a growing phenomenon worldwide, that could promote the state's picturesque tourist destinations through movies.
"With this collaborative initiative, Kerala tourism can tap maximum potential out of film tourism using the Indian film industry which has a production turnover of over Rs 1,200 crore per year," State Tourism Minister A P Anil Kumar has said.
He was speaking at a meeting held with representatives of Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA), Malayalam Cine Technicians Association (MACTA) and Kerala State Film Development Corporation Ltd (KSFDC) here yesterday.

KSFDC has got approval for single window clearance system from government for shooting purposes.
"Unlike other southern states, Kerala poses some restrictions in filming certain key areas which comes under Forest, Cultural, Archaeological, and Irrigation Departments. The film fraternity will discuss these issues with the respective ministers to formulate a one-stop solution," Kumar said.
"The representatives of the film industry have offered support in all international and domestic promotional activities carried out by the tourism department," said Kerala Tourism Director, P I Sheikh Pareeth.

"Necessary action will be taken to ensure smooth functioning of shooting films at around 100 destinations in Kerala which come under tourism department," he said.

Kerala Tourism Secretary G Kamala Vardhana Rao said the Central government has also supporting this initiative.
"Kerala's pride events like Nehru trophy boat race and Thrissur Pooram festival could be cast in any Indian movies which are the best suitable medium to showcase these events worldwide. In this manner, both film and tourism industry can go hand-in-hand," the official said.