Renowned filmmaker SS Rajamouli, known for his epic cinematic spectacles like “Baahubali” and “RRR,” recently embarked on a solo trek to Deomali, the highest peak in Odisha. However, his experience, meant to be a moment of personal reflection and connection with nature, was significantly dampened by the pervasive litter scattered along the trail. The director’s candid social media posts expressing his disappointment have sparked a conversation about environmental responsibility and the need for greater civic sense among tourists.
Rajamouli, who often speaks about the importance of drawing inspiration from natural surroundings, decided to undertake the Deomali trek to experience the untouched beauty of the Eastern Ghats. His solo journey was intended to be a respite from the bustling world of filmmaking, a chance to recharge and find creative inspiration. However, the reality he encountered was far from idyllic.
According to his social media posts, Rajamouli was deeply disturbed by the sheer volume of plastic waste, discarded food wrappers, and other debris that littered the trail leading to the summit. He expressed his dismay at the lack of respect for the environment, emphasizing that a “little civic sense” could have made a substantial difference.
“Deomali is a magnificent place, but the amount of litter is disheartening,” Rajamouli wrote in a post accompanied by photos of the littered landscape. “It’s a reminder that we need to be more mindful of our actions and take responsibility for preserving the natural beauty of these places.”
The Deomali hill, standing at approximately 1,672 meters, is a popular destination for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. Its scenic beauty, lush greenery, and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys attract visitors from across the region. However, the increasing influx of tourists has also led to a rise in environmental degradation.
Rajamouli’s experience highlights a growing concern in India and across the globe: the negative impact of tourism on fragile ecosystems. While tourism can bring economic benefits and promote cultural exchange, it can also lead to environmental damage if not managed responsibly.
The issue of littering in tourist spots is not unique to Deomali. Many popular destinations in India, including hill stations, beaches, and historical sites, face similar challenges. The lack of adequate waste management infrastructure, coupled with a lack of awareness among tourists, contributes to the problem.
Rajamouli’s public outcry has resonated with many, prompting a wave of support on social media. Environmental activists and concerned citizens have lauded his efforts to raise awareness about the issue. Some have called for stricter enforcement of anti-littering laws, while others have emphasized the need for educational campaigns to promote responsible tourism.
The Odisha government, which has been promoting Deomali as a tourist destination, has also taken note of Rajamouli’s concerns. Officials have pledged to take immediate steps to address the issue, including increasing the number of waste bins along the trail, conducting regular clean-up drives, and launching awareness campaigns.
“We appreciate Rajamouli’s concern and are committed to maintaining the pristine beauty of Deomali,” a government spokesperson stated. “We will work with local communities and stakeholders to ensure that the hill remains clean and sustainable.”
Beyond immediate clean-up efforts, there is a need for a long-term strategy to address the root causes of littering. This includes:
- Improved waste management infrastructure: Installing adequate waste bins, providing regular waste collection services, and establishing recycling facilities are crucial.
- Awareness campaigns: Educating tourists about the importance of responsible waste disposal and the impact of littering on the environment is essential.
- Enforcement of anti-littering laws: Imposing fines and penalties for littering can act as a deterrent.
- Promoting sustainable tourism practices: Encouraging eco-friendly tourism practices, such as carrying reusable water bottles and avoiding single-use plastics, can help reduce waste.
- Community involvement: Engaging local communities in waste management efforts and empowering them to take ownership of their environment is vital.
Rajamouli’s experience serves as a stark reminder that preserving the natural beauty of our environment requires collective effort. It is not just the responsibility of the government or environmental organizations, but also of every individual. By adopting responsible tourism practices and cultivating a sense of civic duty, we can ensure that future generations can also enjoy the wonders of nature.
The director’s voice, amplified by his immense popularity, has brought a critical issue to the forefront. It is now up to all stakeholders to translate this awareness into concrete action and ensure that places like Deomali remain pristine and untouched. His trek, though disappointing, has turned into a powerful call for environmental stewardship.
