Battle sequence from ‘Ramayana’ sparks viral interest in Jatayu Earth Center in Kerala

Jatayu statue at Jatayu Earth Center in Chadayamangalam, Kollam. | Photo credit: C. Sureshkumar

A high-altitude battle where Jatayu attempts to wrest Sita from Ravana’s soaring Pushpak Vimana serves as the visual centerpiece of director Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana: Part 1. The film’s spectacular depiction of the Ravana-Jatayu war generated worldwide interest and turned Chadayamangalam’s center for social travel around the earth into a societal Jatayu trend. This unprecedented digital footprint is set to trigger a major tourist surge and record footfall at the site during the coming season.

Jatayu Statue: A Myth Comes to Life

Spanning 200 feet across a giant rock hill in Chadayamangalam, Rajiv Anchal’s monumental structure reigns as the world’s largest bird sculpture. After the release of the film, public figures from Chief Minister VD Satheesan to a host of prominent content creators extended the reach of this landmark. Viral Instagram reels and YouTube memes comparing the film’s visual effects to the actual statue have captivated millions. National and international travel vloggers broadcast cable car experiences, panoramic sunset views and impressive architecture, effectively turning a regional cultural beacon into a global attraction.

A battle sequence from the movie ‘Ramayana’ has sparked viral interest in the place.

Keralam Center Jatayu Country | Video Credit: Special arrangements

A unique stage

Despite the digital frenzy, ground management is going through a unique transitional phase as bookings catch up with online interest. “Almost 90% of visitors to the destination have traditionally come from North India, with domestic footfall remaining relatively modest. While average daily footfall hovers around 2,500 and rises to 5,000 in peak season, immediate post-release travel surges have been tempered by the need for long-term tour planning and high festival fares. However, surges in domestic and international arrivals have surged. travel itineraries are complete,” says Deepak Sunil, CEO of Earth Center.

Management also admits they were caught unprepared for the sheer scale of the exposure. Strategic planning meetings are currently underway to expand proactive crowd management systems, address infrastructure gaps and establish dedicated facilities to seamlessly handle peak visitor flows.

In addition to the immediate hilltop experience, viral interest creates a substantial economic driver for the regional tourism ecosystem, empowering local hotels, resorts, transportation providers and tour guides. As travelers from neighboring states and beyond are increasingly including Chadayamangalam in their itineraries, the small village is also benefiting from having the place on the global travel map. “The local body is fully prepared to provide all necessary tourist facilities. We plan to hold talks with the Jatayu Land Center management to address some key logistical issues after which the panchayat will extend complete support to manage the influx of visitors during the coming season,” Chadayamangalam panchayat president K. Sudevan said.

Published – 11 Nov 2026 06:08 IST