Bombay film crew reunites at Bekal Fort for 30th anniversary celebration

It is not solely the exceptional performances, compelling narratives, and striking cinematography that elevate a film to brilliance. Often, a perfect location, carefully chosen by the crew, plays a crucial role in transforming it into something truly memorable. This view is echoed by the crew of the iconic movie Bombay, shot by Mani Ratnam and starring Arvind Swami and Manisha Koirala, as they come together at Bekal Fort in Kasaragod on December 20 on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the 1995-released film.

For instance, it’s hard for movie buffs to forget the sight of the lead character in the movie leaping across cliffs beside a turbulent sea beneath a brooding sky at Bekal Fort. If the song ‘Uyire’ from the movie still echoes in one’s memory, credit belongs not only to composer A.R. Rahman and his soundtrack — a score of conscience that stirred a nation, but also to its stunning setting that elevated the emotional impact of the movie. 

The crew, including Manisha Koirala, Mani Ratnam and cinematographer Rajiv Menon, gets ready for an anniversary bash on Bekal Beach and the fort on Saturday at the invitation of Kerala Tourism as part of promoting cinema tourism in Kerala, a project that envisages promoting the tourist places which have become popular due to their appearance in films. According to officials, what made Bombay indelible wasn’t just the subject it showcased, but the breathtaking locations that enhanced the appeal of the movie. Through this initiative, Kerala Tourism also plans to draw the attention of filmmakers in India and abroad to the picturesque locations in Kerala, along with popularising such destinations among the tourists visiting the State, said the officer.

Despite the film’s huge popularity in India and abroad, only about 5% of international tourists who visit Kerala reach the stunning locations in northern Kerala. While around 2,500 foreigners visited the fort in 2019, the recent peak in footfall, it dropped by 40% in 2023. As part of the cine tourism promotion programme, the crew will take a stroll through the beach on Saturday, and a visit to Bekal Fort is also scheduled on the same day, said Shijin P, managing director (MD) of the Bekal Resorts Development Corporation (BRDC).