Films have often influenced the travel plans of moviegoers, inspiring them to visit destinations they have admired on the big screen. Switzerland became a dream destination for many Indians after its picturesque locations were showcased in Yash Chopra’s films. Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai (2000) encouraged viewers to explore New Zealand, while Spain found a place on travellers’ wish lists after Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011). Similarly, 3 Idiots (2009) made Ladakh’s Pangong Lake a must-visit destination. In recent times, two films have once again demonstrated the power of cinema in boosting tourism – Hanuman Ansh and Cocktail 2.
Last weekend, videos and pictures emerged of tourists and devotees thronging Kainchi Dham near Nainital, Uttarakhand. The surge in footfalls has been partly attributed to the sleeper blockbuster Hanuman Ansh, which is based on the life of Neeb Karori Baba, whose ashram is situated at Kainchi Dham.
A recent report in Bombay Times, published before the October 2 weekend rush, quoted Sanjeev Kumar, General Manager, Naukuchia House, Naukuchiatal – IHCL SeleQtions, as saying, “The interest around Hanuman Ansh, Neem Karoli Baba and Kainchi Dham has renewed attention on the spiritual landscape of Kumaon. Film-led interest can encourage travellers to look beyond the screen and discover the local culture, faith, food, people and landscape. That is when storytelling becomes meaningful for a destination – when a film sparks curiosity and leads to a more personal journey.”
However, the sudden popularity has also brought its share of problems. ThePrint published a detailed report on how locals are struggling to cope with the influx of tourists in the post-Hanuman Ansh era. The report revealed that rooms which normally cost Rs. 2,000-3,000 per night were being offered for as much as Rs. 7,000 during the recent rush. The massive crowds also led to traffic congestion and put pressure on …read more
Disclaimer : This story is auto-aggregated by a computer program and has not been created or edited by FilmyFriday. Source:: BollywoodHungama
