THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kireedam Paalam, the iconic bridge immortalised by the Malayalam film Kireedam, is set for a new tourism avatar, with the site being developed as a destination and a proposal to turn it into a memorial for legendary actor Thilakan gaining momentum. The bridge will host a five-day Onam celebration from August 25 to 29 for the first time, marking its debut as a major venue under the state’s week-long Onam festivities.
The programme is being held in connection with the state’s tourism celebrations, with the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) selecting Kireedam Paalam as a tourism destination. MLA M Vincent told TNIE that the five-day programme will be the first major event at the site following its development as a tourism destination.
“It is being selected as a destination by the DTPC. Programmes will be held at Kireedam Paalam from August 25 to 29. The location has considerable potential because of its unique combination of cinematic heritage and natural attractions. Vellayani Lake lies on one side, the Punjakkari paddy fields on the other. The locality is also known for its birdlife and attracts migratory birds. Even now, many tourists are visiting the area. The main location of the film was here, and that itself gives the place a special attraction,” he said.
According to the tourism department, plans are underway to establish a memorial and display facilities dedicated to late veteran actor Thilakan, honoring his iconic role alongside Mohanlal in Kireedam. A senior official of DTPC told TNIE that a Thilakan memorial is being planned as part of the destination’s future development. “It is a proposal, but it is in the pipeline. Developing such a memorial would be a worthwhile initiative,” said MLA M Vincent.
According to officials, the destination could continue to be used as an Onam venue in the future, potentially giving Kireedam Paalam a permanent place in the capital’s festival tourism calendar.
The Tourism Department had earlier sanctioned around Rs 1.22 crore for the Kireedam Paalam Cine Tourism Project, envisaging the transformation of the film location into an experiential tourism destination. The project included visitor amenities and recreating elements associated with Kireedam, including the tea shop and other visual references from the film.
However, the project is yet to be fully completed. Kalliyoor panchayat ward member Saju H N said that around 70 percent of the work had been completed. “It’s been nearly a year since the work has been stalled. Facilities created as part of the project had also remained unused, and maintenance had become a concern,” he said.
