Rajamouli’s ‘SSMB29’ with Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra and 500 crew filming at Odisha’s hidden gems. Are you packing your bags?

Director SS Rajamouli’s much-anticipated film, ‘SSMB29’, starring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra, has kicked off its shooting schedule in Odisha. Known for his visually stunning blockbusters like ‘Baahubali’ and ‘RRR’, Rajamouli has selected some of Odisha’s most breathtaking and lesser-known locations for this adventure-thriller.

The massive film production, which reportedly boasts a budget of Rs 1000 crore, has brought a crew of 500 members to Odisha. The team has booked all available lodges in Semiliguda to accommodate the cast and crew while shooting in the scenic locales of Koraput district. The district administration has granted the crew permission to shoot in Deomali and Talamali Hills until March 28. With the crew stationed in the state, the film’s production is creating a buzz, not only among moviegoers but also among travel enthusiasts eager to explore these stunning destinations.



Odisha, often overshadowed by more commercial tourist destinations, boasts some of India’s most picturesque landscapes. Rajamouli’s team has set up camp in the Koraput district, known for its untouched natural beauty and tribal culture. Among the filming locations are the mesmerizing Deomali Hills, the dramatic Talamali Hills, and the breathtaking Machhkund region, each offering a cinematic backdrop fit for an epic adventure.

Deomali Hills: Odisha’s Own Triund

Touted as Odisha’s highest peak, Deomali Hills provides a panoramic view of the Eastern Ghats. The scenic drive leading up to Deomali is a treat in itself, passing through lush green valleys and meandering rivers. Filming here has drawn attention to the destination, which remains relatively unexplored by mainstream travelers. “Deomali looks something beyond anyone’s imagination,” shared a local travel blogger. “It’s a hidden paradise, and it’s great to see it finally getting the recognition it deserves.”

Duduma Waterfalls: A Majestic Natural Wonder

One of the tallest waterfalls in Odisha, Duduma Falls, cascades from a height of over 550 feet, forming a spectacular sight on the Odisha-Andhra Pradesh border. The location’s raw beauty makes it a perfect setting for high-action sequences in ‘SSMB29’. Situated just a two-hour drive from Koraput, Duduma Falls is easily accessible yet remains an offbeat travel gem.

Talamali Hills: A Serene Escape

Nestled in the Semiliguda block of Koraput, Talamali Hills is another key filming location for the film. The rolling landscapes, dense greenery, and mist-covered valleys provide a striking contrast to the high-energy action sequences the movie is expected to deliver. The region has been granted permission for filming until March 28, ensuring Rajamouli’s vision is fully captured on screen.

Priyanka Chopra's Return

Priyanka Chopra, who recently joined the filming after attending her brother Siddharth Chopra’s wedding in Mumbai, was spotted at Odisha airport. Fans eagerly clicked pictures with the ‘Desi Girl’, who sported a casual yet stylish look in grey denim jeans, a black tank top, a leather jacket, and a black cap. This marks Priyanka’s return to Indian cinema after a long gap, making her involvement in ‘SSMB29’ even more exciting for audiences.

Odisha’s breathtaking landscapes have increasingly caught the attention of filmmakers. Recently, blockbuster ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’ was also filmed in Malkangiri, another picturesque district in the state. The success of such projects has put Odisha on the map as a desirable filming location for large-scale productions.