Malayalam cinema

On this report, India Today’s Shibi Mole KG discusses the controversy surrounding the Padma Bhushan conferred upon Malayalam superstar Mammootty in 2026. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has expressed that while the state rejoices in the honour, 'there has been a delay as far as giving a Padma award to Mammootty is concerned.' The Chief Minister highlighted that the state cabinet had repeatedly recommended the actor's name over the years. The discussion points out that Mammootty received his Padma Shri in the late 1990s and waited over 20 years for the Padma Bhushan, unlike fellow superstar Mohanlal. Shibi Mole KG notes that critics have often suggested Mammootty’s political leanings as a Left supporter and his role as chairman of a CPI(M)-backed channel may have influenced the delay at the national level. The report underscores the cultural significance of the actor in Kerala and the perceived political friction between the state and the Centre regarding national recognitions.

A veteran figure of the Malayalam film industry has passed away at the age of 69 in Ernakulam. The actor, director, and writer had been undergoing treatment for a prolonged illness and was hospitalized when his condition worsened. In a prolific career spanning 48 years, he acted in over 200 films and was celebrated for highlighting the struggles of the common man with a unique touch of humor. He was also a recipient of multiple State Film Awards and a National Film Award. A reporter on the broadcast stated, 'It's an irreplaceable loss for the Malayalam film industry because in the last 48 years, he has acted in more than 200 films.' The stalwart is survived by his two sons, who are also popular actors and directors in the industry.

In a direct confrontation with the Centre, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has authorized the screening of 19 films denied censor exemption by the Union Information and Broadcasting Ministry at the 30th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK). Addressing the controversy, Vijayan termed the censorship a 'reflection of dictatorship' and accused the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of attempting to 'suppress diverse voices'. The barred list includes the Soviet-era classic 'Battleship Potemkin' and several Palestinian narratives, which the state government has vowed to screen in defiance of the federal directive. The transcript also notes protests by CPI workers in Thiruvananthapuram against the Centre's intervention.

In this news report, India Today Reporter Shibi Mol details the controversy surrounding Malayalam actor Dileep's scheduled participation in the Ernakulam Shiva Temple festival. Dileep was set to inaugurate the festival's coupon distribution by receiving the first coupon, but backed out following strong objections from the temple committee and the Cochin Devaswom Board. Shibi Mol explains, 'The event is that it was a temple coupon inauguration... Following which, Dilip himself decided to quit the program.' The report highlights the public division in Kerala following Dileep's recent acquittal in the 2017 actor assault case, citing protests such as the halting of his movie screening on a KSRTC bus.

In this report, a reporter discusses the recent acquittal of a prominent actor in a sexual assault case. The survivor issued a detailed statement alleging that the law was not equal for all and pointing out procedural loopholes, including the mishandling of crucial evidence like a memory card. The segment also highlights protests that broke out in a state-run bus where the acquitted actor's movie was being screened. The prosecution plans to appeal the verdict.

In this breaking news report, the survivor of the 2017 Kerala actor assault case, Bhavana Menon, breaks her silence exactly a week after the acquittal of actor Dileep, the eighth accused. Reacting to the verdict, she states that she has 'painfully realized' that the law is not equal for all citizens. India Today’s Shibimol KG reports that the survivor alleged 'loopholes' in the investigation were created to save Dileep and expressed her lack of faith in the trial court, citing the mishandling of the memory card evidence. The survivor also mentioned that prosecutors had warned her about the court’s bias. Meanwhile, the Kerala government has decided to file an appeal in the High Court against Dileep’s acquittal and the 'insufficient' 20-year sentence given to the convicted accused.

In this special edition of Postmortem, Executive Editor Anjali Istwal reports on the acquittal of Malayalam actor Dileep in the 2017 actress assault case on December 8, 2025. Dileep, previously accused of being the mastermind, alleges a 'criminal conspiracy' by his ex-wife Manju Warrier and police to destroy his career. The report details how the prosecution's case weakened after 28 witnesses, including actors Siddique and Bhama, turned hostile. Istwal also highlights the impact of the case, including the formation of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) and the Hema Committee report.

India Today correspondent Shibimol KG reports on the strong reaction to the acquittal of actor Dileep in the 2017 actress assault case. Actor Manju Warrier, Dileep's ex-wife, has stated that justice remains 'incomplete' while the 'mind that planned and enabled this heinous act' walks free. Shibimol KG notes that this is Warrier's first major statement respecting the court but questioning the outcome. The survivor has also expressed that 'not every citizen in this country are equal before the law.' Shibimol KG highlights that the survivor listed reasons for her loss of faith in the trial, including alleged bias by the judge. The report analyzes the strong reactions from these two prominent figures following the controversial verdict.

This special report details the abduction and sexual assault of a prominent Malayalam actress in 2017. The programme outlines the police investigation, which alleged a criminal conspiracy involving a leading actor and other industry figures. It highlights the prosecution's arguments regarding motive, personal vendetta, and evidence such as phone records and witness testimonies. The report also discusses the legal proceedings, the turning hostile of key witnesses, and the broader impact on the film industry, including the formation of safety collectives.

This news bulletin covers major developments across South India, highlighting significant political and legal issues. In Karnataka, a surprise raid at Bengaluru Central Prison led to the seizure of mobile phones, SIM cards, and weapons, prompting a crackdown on illegal activities. The segment also discusses the escalating war of words between the RSS and the state government regarding route marches. In Tamil Nadu, the focus is on the impeachment motion against a High Court judge and actor Vijay's political meetings, drawing criticism from DMK leaders. Additionally, updates from Kerala include an anonymous letter regarding the actress assault case verdict and the ongoing second phase of local body polls. The report provides a comprehensive overview of the day's top stories from the southern states.

On this breaking news broadcast, India Today's Shibimol KG reports on the acquittal of actor Dileep in the 2017 actress assault case by a Kerala sessions court. The verdict has triggered strong reactions, with senior dubbing artist Bhagyalakshmi quitting the film federation in protest. Shibimol KG notes that while the government and the survivor plan to appeal, the acquittal of the alleged mastermind has divided the industry. The report also highlights that 21 witnesses turned hostile during the trial.

The Principal Sessions Court in Ernakulam has acquitted actor Dileep in the 2017 actress abduction and sexual assault case, citing the prosecution's failure to prove conspiracy charges against him. However, the court found the first six accused, including prime accused Pulsar Suni, guilty of abduction and rape. The sentencing for those convicted is scheduled for December 12. The verdict concludes a nearly eight-year legal battle that began after a prominent actress was abducted and sexually assaulted in a moving car in February 2017. Following the verdict, Dileep stated the case had destroyed his career. The survivor is expected to appeal the acquittal in a higher court. This high-profile case has had a significant impact on the Malayalam film industry, leading to the formation of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) and prompting discussions on the safety and harassment of women in the workplace.

The upcoming Malayalam musical drama 'Phaal', starring Shane Nigam, has been denied certification by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which cited objectionable content. The board has reportedly demanded the removal of a scene depicting the consumption of beef biryani and certain dialogues, deeming them 'religiously sensitive'. Consequently, the filmmakers have approached the High Court. The makers argue the film's core message is that 'you need not change your religion' for an inter-religion marriage and question the demand for cuts and the 'A' certificate. However, the CBFC remains firm, stating the film was made with a 'hidden agenda'. The controversy follows a similar issue faced by the Suresh Gopi movie 'Janaki Vs State of Kerala' two months prior.

Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, whose Dadasaheb Phalke Award was recently announced at the 71st National Film Awards, has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.

The 2025 Malayalam film Moonwalk brings the forgotten 80s breakdance scene in Kerala back into the spotlight, inspired by real-life dancers from Thiruvananthapuram’s iconic troupe Footloosers.

Malayalam actor Vincy Aloshious revealed that her co-star, allegedly under the influence of drugs, insisted on fixing her dress.

The recently released Malayalam film Emporan has sparked a political controversy in Kerala. The film will undergo re-censorship with 17 cuts, primarily addressing scenes of violence against women and children.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan watched the controversial film 'Empuraan' with his family at Lulu Mall in Thiruvananthapuram. The film, starring Mohanlal, has sparked a political row over its portrayal of the 2002 Gujarat riots. Producers have decided to cut 17 scenes, including those related to riots and violence against women. RSS has criticised Mohanlal for the film, calling its narrative divisive, while Kerala Congress defends the movie against BJP and RSS criticism.

Superstar Mohanlal faces controversy over offering prayers for Muslim actor Mammootty at Sabarimala temple. Mohanlal dismisses criticism, stating it's unfair to target him and there's nothing wrong with praying for a close friend. The incident has sparked debates on religious harmony and tolerance in India. Activist Rahul Eswar supports Mohanlal's actions, calling it a model of Indian harmony.

Malayalam actor Minu Muneer has claimed that filmmaker-actor Balachandra Menon forced her to watch a sexual act with others in 2007.