Rajamouli’s concern spurs clean-up drive on Deomali Hill

When a celebrity highlights an environmental issue, it often prompts a swift and positive public response. A recent example unfolded in Odisha's Koraput district, where Rajamouli’s post sparked immediate action

Hyderabad: When a celebrity speaks, people often listen, and act as well. A recent incident in Odisha’s Koraput district, prompted a swift and positive local response when acclaimed filmmaker SS Rajamouli’s expressed concern over environmental degradation.

Deomali Hill, the highest peak in Odisha and the Eastern Ghats, is located at 1,672 metres above sea level. Its stunning panoramic views and lush green vegetation bring nature lovers to this place to indulge in outdoor activities such as trekking, hang gliding and mountaineering.

In recent years, the hill has seen a rise in tourist footfall. However, this growing popularity of the hill has also brought an unwelcome side effect: littering.

On a visit to Deomali, the celebrated South Indian movie director Rajamouli shared his experience on X (formerly Twitter), praising the region’s natural beauty but expressing disappointment at the sight of trash strewn along the trail. “Such pristine wonders deserve better. A little civic sense can make a huge difference. Every visitor should carry back their waste to help protect these places,” he wrote.

Had an amazing solo trek to Deomali, Odisha’s highest and most stunning peak. The view from the top was absolutely breathtaking.

However, it was disheartening to see the trail marred by litter. Such pristine wonders deserve better. A little civic sense can make a huge… pic.twitter.com/8xVBxVqQvc

— rajamouli ss (@ssrajamouli) March 19, 2025

The post struck a chord with many, particularly a local group called ‘Friends from Koraput’. In response to the director’s remarks, the group quickly organised a cleanliness drive at the site. They collected litter from the area and later shared photographs of their efforts on social media, with a message of hope that future visitors, including Rajamouli, would find Deomali free of any litter.

This incident has once again highlighted the growing need for responsible tourism and community-led conservation efforts, especially in ecologically sensitive areas such as Deomali.