Padakkalam, a Malayalam supernatural comedy starring Suraj Venjaramoodu, Sharaf U Dheen, and Sandeep Pradeep, directed by debutant Manu Swaraj, is set for its digital debut. The film, blending fantasy, humor, and thriller elements, follows four comic book-loving students uncovering their professor’s dark secrets. It will stream on JioHotstar in Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi, starting June 10, 2025. After a successful theatrical run beginning May 8, 2025, the OTT release was announced on June 2, 2025. With a vibrant cast, magical dice board plot, and Rajesh Murugesan’s music, it promises a fun-filled experience for diverse audiences.
In This Article:
Film Overview and Reception
Padakkalam, released in theaters on May 8, 2025, is a fantasy comedy-drama that has charmed audiences with its unique blend of humor and supernatural twists. Directed by Manu Swaraj and co-written with Nithin C Babu, the film follows Jithin (Sandeep Pradeep) and his nerdy friends, who discover their charismatic professor, Ranjith (Sharaf U Dheen), uses a magical dice board for body-swapping sorcery. Suraj Venjaramoodu, as HOD Shaji, adds depth with his dynamic performance. The ensemble cast, including Niranjana Anoop, Saaf Bros., and Pooja Mohanraj, delivers vibrant energy. The film’s quirky narrative, likened to Jumanji, earned a 7.6/10 IMDb rating, with ETimes giving it 3.5/5 for its “refreshing mix of thrills and comedy.”
Box Office Success
Made on a ₹7.5 crore budget, Padakkalam grossed over ₹11 crore, performing strongly in Kerala and GCC countries like the UAE and Qatar. Its theatrical run extended to the UK and Ireland, driven by positive word-of-mouth, with fans on X calling it a “comedy firework.”
OTT Release Details
JioHotstar secured the digital rights, and Padakkalam begins streaming on June 10, 2025, at midnight, as announced via a tweet: “Comedy firework on JioHotstar from June 10th!” Available in multiple languages with subtitles, it aims to reach a wider audience. The film’s vibrant cinematography by Anu Moothedath and Rajesh Murugesan’s whimsical score enhance its appeal.
Padakkalam’s OTT release on JioHotstar promises a delightful mix of laughter, fantasy, and suspense. With stellar performances and a fresh narrative, it’s a must-watch for fans of innovative Malayalam cinema.
-By Manoj H