Dharma Productions Ventures into Malayalam Cinema with Odiyan: The Age of Illusion

Dharma Productions is making its debut in Malayalam cinema with the film Odiyan: The Age of Illusion, directed by Rahul Sadasivan. Starring Prithviraj Sukumaran and Manju Warrier, this pan-Indian film draws from Kerala folklore and explores themes of illusion and reality. Karan Johar expressed his admiration for the craftsmanship of Malayalam cinema, marking this collaboration as a significant opportunity. The film is expected to have a larger production scale, enhancing its reach. Notably, the title Odiyan has been used before in a successful 2018 film, adding to the anticipation surrounding this new project.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 16, 2026, 13:40 IST

Dharma Productions Makes Its Mark in Malayalam Cinema

Karan Johar has revealed that Dharma Productions is officially entering the realm of Malayalam cinema with the upcoming film, Odiyan: The Age of Illusion, directed by Rahul Sadasivan. This film features prominent actors Prithviraj Sukumaran and Manju Warrier in leading roles and is set to be released in multiple languages, including Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada. This project signifies a partnership between Dharma Productions and Prithviraj Productions, drawing inspiration from a folklore legend of Kerala that delves into the themes of illusion and reality within a family setting.

Dharma Productions Enters Malayalam Cinema With Odiyan: The Age Of Illusion

The announcement was made alongside a poster that showcased the film's title, main cast, and crew. Prithviraj Sukumaran emphasized the significance of the Odiyan legend in Kerala's cultural heritage, noting its enduring presence in local folklore. He stated, "This legend has been passed down through generations and remains a vital part of our cultural identity. It has been my heartfelt endeavor to bring this story to life on screen in a manner that respects its mythology and cultural roots."

Karan Johar took to social media to express his appreciation for the craftsmanship and storytelling inherent in Malayalam cinema. He conveyed that collaborating with Rahul Sadasivan and Prithviraj Sukumaran presented an ideal opportunity for Dharma Productions to enter this vibrant industry.

Rahul Sadasivan’s Most Ambitious Film Yet

Rahul Sadasivan, recognized for his notable works such as Bhoothakalam and Bramayugam, is set to direct what is being touted as his most ambitious project to date. With the backing of Dharma Productions, the film is anticipated to have a larger production scale and a wider audience reach.

It's important to note that the title Odiyan was previously used for another Malayalam film featuring Manju Warrier and Mohanlal, released in 2018. This supernatural fantasy drama, directed by VA Shrikumar Menon, received mixed reviews but emerged as a box office success, praised for Mohanlal's compelling performance, music, and action sequences. The film was inspired by the legend of the Odiyan clan from Kerala folklore, known for their shapeshifting abilities.