Why Mollywood is betting big on major Onam releases this year

Malayalam cinema, known as Mollywood, is eagerly anticipating a thriving Onam season, with an estimated ₹150 crore at stake. Theaters anticipate a significant increase in footfall, as audiences eagerly await the release of highly-anticipated films. Among the major Onam releases, Dulquer Salmaan's I'm Game, Nivin Pauly's Bethlehem Kudumba Unit, and Prithviraj Sukumaran's Khalifa have captured the attention of industry insiders.

These three films, along with Jude Anthany Joseph's Thudakkam, form a total budget of around ₹150 crore, according to the Kerala Film Producers’ Association (KFPA). B. Rakesh, president of KFPA, expressed high expectations for these festival releases, stating that they offer a perfect package for Onam. The festival season remains crucial for Malayalam cinema, as it provides an opportunity for increased revenue and attracts family audiences to theaters during the holidays.

The rising budgets for major releases can be attributed to the involvement of star-studded casts and crews, along with the use of multiple filming locations. Exhibitors are optimistic about the Onam releases, as mixed results were witnessed in the first half of 2026. Suresh Shenoy, executive member of the Film Exhibitors’ United Organisation of Kerala (FEUOK), noted that the competition among the three movies will create a packed screening schedule.

Despite the high stakes, the potential for garnering equal interest from moviegoers remains high. The previous Onam season saw a clash of three heavyweights, with only two films emerging victorious, while the third failed to make a significant impact at the box office.