REPORT ON SALEM DOCUMENTARY

Team Overview:

The documentary on Salem was the collective effort of six passionate individuals, all natives of
Salem, Tamil Nadu. The team consisted of:

● Sara Usma Shahir 23bec048 (Producer, Cinematographer, Narrator)

● Navinya N 23bec027 (Composer, Narrator)
● Suguna C 23bec060 (Producer, Cinematographer)
● Sampreetha S 23bec043 (Producer, Cinematographer)
● Navya CS 23bec028 (Narrator)
● Pradeepa V 23bec035 (Screenwriter)

Each member contributed their unique perspectives and skills, unified by their shared love for
their hometown and also by playing a significant role in various aspects of the production, from
writing the script to capturing the visuals and lending their voice for the narration.

Concept and Planning:

Our goal was to showcase the cultural, historical, and industrial significance of Salem. The
documentary was structured to present various facets of Salem, blending narration with visual
elements. We divided the responsibilities, ensuring each member handled key components like
voice-overs, scriptwriting, editing, and direction.

Production Process:

We shot the documentary across multiple locations in Salem, ensuring we captured both the
scenic landscapes of Yercaud and the architectural marvels like Mettur Dam. Each team member
contributed to capturing footage, conducting research, and scripting.

The voice-overs were carefully crafted to match the visuals, with each narrator emphasizing the
uniqueness of each location. We recorded the narrations in a professional tone, ensuring clarity
and engagement.

Transcript Used in the Introduction of the Documentary

Cradled in the heart of Tamil Nadu, Salem stands as a city of rich culture, history, and
modernity. Known for its textile and steel industries, this bustling city has more to offer than
meets the eye. From the Majestic Yercaud Hills to the historic forts, Salem is a blend of the old
and the new. And definitely has a little something for everyone. Let's take a journey through this
vibrant city and discover its hidden gems.
Particulars for Each Segment of the Documentary

1. Yercaud
○ Producer: Sara Usma Shahir
○ Screenwriter: Pradeepa V
○ Cinematographer/Editor: Sara Usma Shahir
○ Composer: Navinya N
○ Narrator: Sara Usma Shahir

Voice-over Transcript
Yercaud hills are famed for their stunning greenery. The lush forests and coffee
plantations blanket the hills, creating a serene environment with rich biodiversity. The air
is fresh, and the greenery offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city life.

At the heart of the hills lies the Sherwaroyan Temple, perched on a hilltop. This ancient
temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is revered by locals. Its location offers breathtaking
panoramic views of the surrounding hills, and the temple itself is a place of spiritual
solace for visitors.

A visit to Yercaud isn't complete without experiencing the calm and beauty of the Yercaud
Lake. Boating here provides a unique way to appreciate the misty surroundings and
tranquil waters. The lake is a peaceful retreat, offering an ideal escape to nature lovers.

The Lady’s Seat, a viewpoint famous for its scenic views, is a must-visit. With its
breathtaking overlook of the winding roads and valleys below, it's an awe-inspiring spot,
especially during the evening as the clouds roll in over the hills.

Yercaud is also home to numerous chocolate factories, where visitors can see the
traditional methods of making delicious, handcrafted chocolates. These factories are a
highlight for tourists, offering a sweet taste of the hills and a chance to take some local
specialties back home.

Montfort School, an iconic landmark of Yercaud, stands as a symbol of excellence in

education. Established in 1917, this prestigious institution is surrounded by the natural
beauty of the hills, creating an inspiring environment for students.

As you descend the yercaud Hills, the sunset scenery is nothing short of magical. The sun
dips below the horizon, casting hues of orange and pink across the sky, while the cool
breeze carries the scent of pine. This captivating view makes the journey down the hills a
serene and memorable experience.

2. Salem Steel Plant

○ Producer: Sara Usma Shahir
 ○ Screenwriter: Pradeepa V
○ Cinematographer/Editor: Sara Usma Shahir
○ Composer: Navinya N
○ Narrator: Navinya N

Voice-over Transcript
In the dynamic city of Salem, Tamil Nadu, the Salem Steel Plant stands as a beacon of
innovation and economic vitality! Since its establishment in 1982 by the Steel Authority
of India Limited, this impressive 1,200-acre facility has become a powerhouse of stainless
steel and special alloys, fueling industries like automotive, construction, and aerospace.

From melting iron ore in electric arc furnaces to shaping steel into versatile products, the
plant’s production process is a marvel of efficiency! Committed to sustainability, the
Salem Steel Plant leads the charge in optimizing energy use, recycling waste, and
minimizing emissions, showcasing its commitment to a greener future.

With a passionate workforce of over 3,000 skilled employees, the plant is not just about
production—it's about empowering the community through skill development programs!
The thoughtfully designed residential block and various outlets ensure that every
employee's needs are met, fostering a strong sense of belonging.

Under visionary leadership, the plant actively drives corporate social responsibility
initiatives, enhancing education, healthcare, and infrastructure in the local community.
As the sun sets, the Salem Steel Plant shines brightly as a symbol of progress and
resilience, weaving the incredible story of India’s industrial journey into every steel coil
produced.

3. Kottai Mariamman Temple

○ Producer: Sara Usma Shahir
○ Screenwriter: Pradeepa V
○ Cinematographer/Editor: Sara Usma Shahir
○ Composer: Sara Usma Shahir
○ Narrator: Navya CS

Voice-over Transcript
Nestled in the heart of Salem, the 16th-century Kottai Mariamman Temple is a spiritual
gem dedicated to Goddess Mariamman. Renowned for its stunning Dravidian
architecture, the temple features a towering gopuram adorned with intricate carvings,
inviting visitors into a world of mythology and devotion.
 The lively Aadi Festival sees thousands flock for rituals, processions, and the iconic
fire-walking ceremony. More than a place of worship, the temple drives community
welfare, offering healthcare and education.

But the Kottai Mariamman Temple is more than just a place of worship; it actively
engages in community welfare, providing essential healthcare services and educational
support to those in need.

This commitment to service reflects the nurturing spirit of the Goddess. As dusk falls, the
temple glows with faith and tradition, standing tall as a symbol of hope and resilience.

4. Mettur Dam
○ Producer: Suguna C
○ Screenwriter: Pradeepa V
○ Cinematographer/Editor: Suguna C
○ Composer: Navinya N
○ Narrator: Navya CS

Voice-over Transcript
Spanning the mighty Cauvery River, the Mettur Dam in Salem district, Tamil Nadu,
stands as a symbol of architectural brilliance and agricultural lifeblood.

Constructed over nine years from 1925 to 1934, this 1,700-meter-long, 65-meter-high
dam forms the massive Stanley Reservoir, a human-made marvel that covers 153 square
kilometers.

Equipped with 20 sluice gates, the dam expertly manages water flow, sustaining over 2.6
lakh hectares of farmland. As the Cauvery River—fondly called the ‘Lifeline of Tamil
Nadu’—passes through the dam, it transforms into the vital force fueling the state's
agricultural prosperity, ensuring water security for countless towns and villages.

5. Salem Thattu Vadai Settu

○ Producer: Sampreetha S
○ Screenwriter: Pradeepa V
○ Cinematographer/Editor: Sampreetha S
○ Composer: Navinya N
○ Narrator: Navya CS

Voice-over Transcript
Welcome to Salem, Tamil Nadu—where vibrant culture meets mouthwatering cuisine!
Among the culinary gems, the Thattu Vadai Set stands out as a must-try dish, adored by
locals and visitors alike.
 Served on a banana leaf, this dish features the iconic Thattu Vadai—a crispy, savory
snack made from lentils and spices, deep-fried to perfection.

Accompanied by zesty chutneys, tangy sambar, and fresh salads, it creates a delightful
flavor symphony that tantalizes your taste buds! Found at lively roadside stalls and
charming eateries, the Thattu Vadai Set is more than just food; it’s a communal
celebration of stories and laughter shared among friends and family.

Whether at festivals or as a quick snack, this beloved dish captures the essence of Salem’s
culture. Dive in and savor every bite!

Transcript Used in the Outro of the Documentary

So Guys, How much did you enjoy our video on Salem? Our documentary captures the heart and
soul of the city—its landmarks, vibrant industries, rich culture, and delicious cuisine.

We showcased everything from the stunning Yercaud Hills to the iconic Mettur Dam, with
voice-overs perfectly matching the visuals of an engaging story.

This isn’t just a film; it’s a heartfelt tribute to Salem, narrated by those who know it best. We
hope you enjoyed it as much as we loved creating it!

Thanks for watching!

Final Editing:

The final editing process was meticulous, combining footage, voice-overs, and background
music to create a cohesive narrative. Each section was designed to flow seamlessly into the next,
giving viewers a comprehensive look at Salem's rich culture and landmarks.

Outcome:

The completed documentary successfully showcased Salem’s many facets, from its natural
beauty to its industrial strength and cultural richness. We believe this project not only highlights
the pride of our hometown but also educates others on the importance of Salem in Tamil Nadu’s
history and development.