Wed Jan 08 09:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Bobby Chemmannur’s 1000-Acre Estate in Wayanad Faces Backlash After New Year’s Eve Event Cancelled
**Wayanad, Kerala, January 8, 2025** – Bobby Chemmannur’s sprawling 1000-acre estate, “BoChe Thousand Acres,” in Wayanad, has been the center of controversy following the cancellation of its planned New Year’s Eve celebration. The event, dubbed “Sunburn,” was initially expected to draw thousands, but faced strong local opposition and a subsequent court order.
Chemmannur, who purchased the former tea estate two years ago, has transformed the property into a tourist destination featuring tea production, luxury huts, a giant swing, and cycling trails. He also launched “BoChe Tea,” a brand of tea powder produced on the estate. The estate, which includes 600 acres of cardamom and 400 acres of tea, has undergone significant renovations while retaining its existing workforce. Chemmannur also improved access roads, opening them to the public.
Last year’s Sunburn event resulted in a police lathi charge to manage the large crowds. This year, however, the event was cancelled after local residents protested, citing concerns about the potential impact on the already fragile environment following a recent landslide in the nearby Chooralmala area. The High Court issued a stay order against the event, and the District Collector denied permission. As a result, the New Year’s Eve celebration was moved to Thrissur.
The controversy surrounding the Sunburn event adds another layer to the story of BoChe Thousand Acres. While the estate is attracting tourists from across the region, including Karnataka, its future as a large-scale entertainment venue remains uncertain in light of the strong local opposition. The recent arrest of Chemmannur in relation to a police complaint filed by actress Honey Rose further highlights the ongoing attention surrounding his activities.
First Piper 