Films inspired by India's epics have the potential to take audiences beyond the screen and introduce them to destinations connected with their stories. With the release of Ramayana: Part 1, places associated with the character of Jatayu have received renewed attention, raising an interesting question for India's tourism sector: can interest generated by a film translate into lasting visitor growth?

One of the strongest reported examples comes from Jatayu Earth Centre at Chadayamangalam in Kollam district, Kerala. According to local tradition, the hill is associated with the place where Jatayu fell after fighting Ravana while attempting to rescue Sita. Reports following the film's release have highlighted an increase in visitors to the destination. Separate coverage has put its current attendance at around 2,500 visitors a day.

However, the daily attendance figure should be viewed carefully. Without comparable visitor numbers from before the film's release, it is not possible to establish how many additional visitors came specifically because of the movie or measure the exact increase. It nevertheless points to renewed attention towards a destination that already holds a strong connection with the epic.

Beyond Kerala, several other places associated with Jatayu are also part of the conversation. Lepakshi in Andhra Pradesh has a local tradition connecting its name with Rama addressing the wounded Jatayu. The destination is also known for its Jatayu sculpture. In Tamil Nadu, Thirupputkuzhi near Kanchipuram is associated with Rama performing Jatayu's final rites, while Thirupullabhoothangudi is another Vaishnava shrine linked to Jatayu's liberation and final rites. Taked near Nashik in Maharashtra is home to Sarvatirth Jatayu Mandir, which preserves a local tradition connected with Jatayu and Rama.

These destinations offer opportunities to explore a wider Jatayu trail. However, renewed public discussion should not be mistaken for proven tourism growth. It is also important to distinguish destinations associated with the epic through religious belief and local traditions from actual filming locations.

The wider Ramayana Circuit provides another opportunity to connect such destinations. The government-backed circuit includes places such as Ayodhya, Chitrakoot, Sitamarhi, Buxar, Darbhanga, Nashik, Hampi, Bhadrachalam and Rameswaram, among others. While this network offers a framework for developing epic-inspired travel experiences, its inclusion does not establish a recent increase in visitors because of the film.

For tourism organisations, the next step should be to understand what motivates people to visit these places. Some may feel emotionally connected to Jatayu's sacrifice, while others may wish to revisit childhood memories of the Ramayana. For some visitors, the film or a social media post may have introduced them to a destination for the first time. Others may be interested in seeing a temple, sculpture or landscape connected with a story they have watched on screen.

There is already an example of promotional interest from the government. Kerala's Chief Minister publicly invited audiences to visit Jatayu Earth Centre after watching the film. Such initiatives can help convert attention into travel plans, but destinations also need to be prepared for the interest they generate.

Tourism bodies can support this through multilingual destination information, verified booking details, transparent prices, better transport access and manageable two- or three-day regional itineraries. Local guides can help visitors understand the religious, architectural and cultural significance of each place, including the different regional traditions associated with Jatayu. Better visitor facilities, including drinking water, toilets, shade, queue management and emergency arrangements, will also be important.

The benefits should extend to local communities through opportunities for guides, homestays, food businesses, craftspeople and cultural performers. At the same time, tourism campaigns must clearly explain when a destination's connection comes from religious belief or local tradition rather than presenting disputed associations as historically established facts.

Whether the current interest becomes a short-term visitor spike or sustained tourism growth remains to be seen. To understand the actual impact, destinations need to compare daily visitor numbers before and after the release, hotel occupancy, visitor spending and the places from which tourists are travelling. Asking visitors whether the film influenced their decision will also help separate movie-related travel from regular holidays, pilgrimage visits and other promotional activities.

The release of Ramayana: Part 1 has created an opportunity to bring greater attention to India's epic-linked destinations. The reported increase at Jatayu Earth Centre offers an encouraging starting point, while other locations present possibilities for future regional travel experiences. The real opportunity lies not simply in attracting visitors through a film, but in creating meaningful journeys that preserve local traditions, support communities and encourage travellers to explore India's cultural heritage beyond the screen.

Tropika Brewing Co. is bringing Mexican-inspired flavours to Bengaluru with Mexican Fiesta, a special culinary showcase featuring a selection of dishes, charcoal-grilled specialities, desserts and tequila-led cocktails. The experience celebrates bold flavours and fresh ingredients through a specially curated menu.

The menu features a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including Asado Corn Cob, crispy empanadas, Goat Nihari Birria Tacos, Chipotle Bowls, Quesadillas and Chimichangas. Guests can also explore a dedicated live grill serving Chipotle Honey BBQ Wings, Mexican Chorizo Grill and Serrano Paneer Skewers.

For dessert, the spread includes Flan Napolitano and Churros Sundae, offering a sweet finish to the meal. The beverage selection adds to the experience with tequila-led cocktails such as Mexican Sour, Paloma Cerveza, El Picante and Sol de Jalisco.

Bringing together Mexican-inspired dishes, smoky grilled preparations and refreshing cocktails, Mexican Fiesta offers guests a lively dining experience at Tropika Brewing Co. in Marathahalli, Bengaluru. The menu is available from 12:00 PM onwards, inviting guests to explore a range of flavours inspired by Mexican cuisine.

Event Details:

• Event: Mexican Fiesta

• Venue: Tropika Brewing Co., Marathahalli, Bengaluru

• Timings: 12:00 PM onwards.

Katha Coffee is bringing childhood memories to the table with its special Bachpan Menu, a playful selection of café creations inspired by familiar treats and flavours. Available at its Gachibowli and Banjara Hills outlets in Hyderabad, the menu celebrates the little joys of growing up through a range of nostalgic food and beverage options.

The menu features a mix of sweet treats and beverages, including the Oh So Ferroo Diner Pancake, Jim Jm Cinnamon Roll and Jim Jm Frappe. Guests can also enjoy the Oh So Alpenli*be Latte, Oh So Ferroo Latte and the uniquely named Rasna Espresso, each adding a playful touch to the café experience.

With familiar flavours presented in a café-style format, the Bachpan Menu aims to bring back memories of carefree childhood days while offering guests something different to enjoy during their visit.

The menu is available at Katha Coffee & Bakehouse in Gachibowli, located on DLF Road, and its Banjara Hills outlet on Road Number 3, Hyderabad. Through this special offering, the café invites guests to revisit their favourite childhood flavours and enjoy them in a new way.

Event Details:

• Offering: Bachpan Menu at Katha Coffee

• Venue 1: Katha Coffee & Bakehouse, Gachibowli, Sy. No. 111, 1-47/2, Door No. A/1, DLF Road, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, Telangana – 500032

• Venue 2: Katha Coffee & Bakehouse, Banjara Hills, 8-2-351, Road Number 3, Green Valley, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana – 500082

• Availability: Ongoing.