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 genera.