Kumaradevam village in Kovvur Mandal of East Godavari District is grieving the loss of a monumental tree, affectionately known as the “Movie Tree,” which collapsed due to recent floodwaters. This tree, over 170 years old and located on the Godavari embankment, was a significant cultural landmark. More than 450 films across various languages were shot under its branches, making it a cherished symbol in the film industry.The tree’s storied history includes contributions to films directed by notable figures such as K. Viswanath, Vamsi, Jandhyala, E.V.V. Satyanarayana, K. Raghavendra Rao, and Dasari Narayana Rao. Veteran cine actor Jit Mohan Mitra, residing in Rajamahendravaram, expressed his deep connection to the tree. “The tree is a sentiment to movie makers. Many movies shot at the tree have been successful. Directors like Jandhyala and E.V.V. Satyanarayana would spend hours under it during their free time,” he told the Deccan Chronicle.Mitra, who worked as a liaison officer for numerous films, recounted the tree’s significance to filmmakers from various regions, including Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and Hindi-speaking areas. Iconic films such as “Sithara,” “Sankarabharanam,” “Ananda Bhyravi,” “Himmatwala,” “Padipantalu,” and “Devatha” featured scenes shot under the tree. He noted a prevalent sentiment among directors that filming under the tree brought good luck, often prompting them to include special scenes or duets around it.Trees on the Godavari Bund generally do not have deep roots and tend to collapse after a century or so. However, the Movie Tree stood longer, possibly aided by props and supports. “Though the Movie Tree collapsed, it remains alive in the movies,” Mitra commented.Local resident I. Tata Rao described the profound impact of the tree’s fall on the village. The tree, planted 170 years ago by Ch. Tata Rao, had provided shelter and a sense of beauty to the community. “The people of the village are under the grip of grief with the collapse of the tree,” Tata Rao said. He shared how the tree had been an integral part of their lives from childhood, and now, without it, the village feels empty and diminished.The loss of the Movie Tree marks the end of an era for Kumaradevam village and the broader film industry, leaving behind a legacy immortalized in countless films.
Source link
