Initially, it appeared to be just another birthday greeting. However, once shared on social media, fans were thrilled by the news that Mammootty would be part of the latest universe in Malayalam cinema.
On September 7, Dulquer Salmaan, the producer of Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra, posted a birthday wish for his superstar father. What caught everyone’s attention was his reference to Mammootty as Moothon, meaning ‘the elder one’ in Malayalam.
The poster displays a hooded figure holding a weapon with a crescent-shaped tip. The Instagram caption read, “Happy birthday Moothon. You have our eternal love.”
For many fans, this confirmed that Mammootty is indeed Moothon.
But why is the name Moothon so important?
The character’s name was hinted at in a recent film starring Kalyani Priyadarshan, Naslen Gafoor, and directed by Dominic Arun. Lokah, released alongside Mohanlal’s dramedy Hridayapoorvam, became a huge success. According to Sacnilk, Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra grossed Rs 1,560 million (approximately Dh65 million) worldwide.
The filmmakers had been secretive about Mammootty’s role in the next installment, leaving audiences speculating about his character or if he would be the new villain.
Mammootty, one of Malayalam and Indian cinema’s greatest superstars, celebrated his 74th birthday. With over four decades in film, he received wishes from colleagues, fans, and politicians, including Kerala’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
The actor was reportedly battling cancer and took a break for chemotherapy. Reports indicated the star of Bramayugam, Rajamanikyam, Thalapathi, and Yavanika was recuperating in Chennai.
Mammootty will also appear in Kalamkaval, a crime drama featuring Vinayakan, expected to be his first film post-recovery. Directed by newcomer Jithin K Jose, who wrote for Dulquer Salmaan’s crime drama Kurup, the film’s gritty teaser has been released.
The movie features Meera Jasmine, Gibin Gopinath, Gayatri Arun, and Rajisha Vijayan in supporting roles. The screenplay for Kalamkaval is co-written by Jithin Jose and Jishnu Sreekumar.
