Dharma Productions and Prithviraj Productions have announced a new Malayalam film, Odiyan: The Age Of Illusion. Inspired by one of Kerala’s most famous legends, the movie will explore folklore, myths, and cultural traditions from 19th century Kerala. The project is significant because it marks the first Malayalam language production from Dharma Productions, one of India’s most established film production companies.
The film is being produced by Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Supriya Menon. Direction will be handled by Rahul Sadasivan, whose previous films Bhoothakaalam, Bramayugam, and Diés Irae earned attention for their unique storytelling and use of Kerala’s folklore. The movie stars Manju Warrier and Prithviraj Sukumaran in key roles.
According to the makers, the story is centered on the Odiyan, a legendary shape shifter from Kerala folklore. The character has been part of local stories and beliefs for generations. In the film, the mysterious figure becomes connected to a powerful matriarchal family, setting off a series of events that explore themes of truth, illusion, fear, and belief. The narrative aims to blend mythology with human emotions and psychological drama.
Rahul Sadasivan believes folklore remains powerful because it exists between memory, belief, and imagination. Speaking about the project, he said, “Folklore has always been a powerful source of fear because it exists in the space between memory, belief, and imagination. With Odiyan: The Age of Illusion, I wanted to revisit one of Kerala’s most enduring legends and bring it to life through a cinematic language rooted in atmosphere, mystery, and emotion.”
Karan Johar has said that he has admired Malayalam cinema for many years and viewed this project as an opportunity for Dharma Productions to become part of that industry. Apoorva Mehta also described the collaboration as an important step for the company as it expands into regional cinema and different storytelling traditions.
Prithviraj Sukumaran noted that the Odiyan legend remains an important part of Kerala’s cultural identity and said bringing the story to the screen has been a long standing goal. Supriya Menon welcomed the partnership and expressed hope that the film would offer audiences a memorable cinematic experience.
Odiyan: The Age Of Illusion is currently in development and will be released in cinemas at a later date.