Union Enclave Yanam has become one of the most-sought-after location for Bhojpuri and Tamil film-makers and producers. Known for its scenic beauty and a beach, the town also boasts structures dated back to the French rule. Interestingly, the Puducherry government has given a facelift to the town by developing gardens and parks, besides constructing a replica of the Eiffel Tower.
Curiously, the town wore a deserted look three years ago following the lockout of the lone major industry Regency Ceramics.
Production companies are now lining up to Yanam. “This is my fourth consecutive film being shot here. It is quite easy to get permission for film shoot here.
As the local people are very cooperative, we finish shoots at least a couple of days ahead of the schedule,” says Bhojpuri film-maker Gosangi Subba Rao.
After making a couple of Telugu films, Mr. Subba Rao tested his luck in Bhojpuri, where he tasted three hits in a row.
“I shot my earlier films Hero , Tiger and Nirahua Mail in Yanam, and they became big hits,” he says, while making arrangements for filming a song for his yet-to-be-named film. Besides the location, availability of accommodation and simple procedures to obtain permissions seem to be the other attractions for film crews for choosing this town. Admitting that there has been a steady increase in film shoots, officials say they are taking less than a week to process the application and accord necessary permissions. “Six films have been shot here in the last six months. The charges are based on the locations, ranging from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 2,000 per hour,” says Municipal Commissioner Lanka Rama Rao.
Besides the location, availability of accommodation and simple procedures to obtain permissions attract film crews to the town