Kerala is Open – the story behind the viral video

The short video released by famous brand Samsonite saying ‘Kerala is Open’ has become viral in the social media. It was a boost for the Kerala tourism industry, which has been bouncing back from recent floods, which caused widespread damages to the industry.

The 40 second video has been shared by thousands of people, including prominent personalities like Former Union Minister Shashi Tharoor, Kerala Tourism Minister Kadakampalli Surendran, Renowned film actor Prithwiraj Sukumaran etc. Recently Indian Cricket Team Captain Virat Kohli has also shared the video on his Facebook page.

“What a comeback from Kerala! As they say, when the going gets tough, the tough gets going. A really thoughtful message. Share this video to spread the message that #KeralaIsOpen,” he wrote in his message.

Lakhs of people have watched the video in this short period. How the people of Kerala live, how the flood has affected their lives, their happiness of receiving tourists again etc. have been nicely depicted in this 40 second short video.

The concept was initiated by a Mumbai-based advertising company, Autumn Worldwide. “We have been watching news about the damaged caused to Kerala tourism by the recent floods. As part of our social responsibility, we thought of doing something for the revival of Kerala Tourism. Earlier, Samsonite had approached us to make a video on the occasion of the World Tourism Day,” said Bodh Deb, Vice President and Branch Head of Autumn.

“We have approached Samsonite and expressed our interest to do a short video on Kerala floods and its revival. At first Samsonite did not agree with the idea, but later they have given green signal. Everyone in Autumn has provided their inputs to materialize the idea. Our Creative Director Nishanth Ananthram has made the script. Deepti Nagia did the direction. We dedicate this short video to the brave people of Kerala. We thank Samsonite to help making this idea a reality,” added Bodh Deb

Commenting on the initiative, Anushree Tainwala- Executive Director-Marketing, Samsonite South Asia, said, “Through this campaign, we hope more and more people travel to Kerala. We want people to recognize that the only thing more unique than Neelakurinji is the heart of the people in Kerala. So let’s now embrace the spirits of the people and travel to Kerala because #KeralaIsOpen.”

Watch the video here: