Dharma Productions Malayalam film Odiyan starring Prithviraj

Filmmaker Karan Johar announced on Tuesday that his production house, Dharma Productions, is making its debut in the Malayalam film industry with a major new project titled "Odiyan: The Age of Illusion." The film is a joint production with Prithviraj Productions and will be directed by acclaimed filmmaker Rahul Sadasivan, known for his work in horror and folklore.

The project marks a significant pan-Indian collaboration, with plans for a theatrical release in five languages: Malayalam, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada. The film will star Malayalam superstars Prithviraj Sukumaran and Manju Warrier in lead roles.

Set in 19th-century Kerala, the film is rooted in local folklore, exploring the legend of the Odiyan, a mythical shapeshifter said to possess sinister powers. The narrative centers on a formidable matriarch, played by Warrier, whose household is threatened by a shapeshifting force, igniting a conflict between reality and illusion.

Johar announced the project on social media, sharing a first-look poster featuring intricate baroque detailing. In his statement, he expressed long-standing admiration for Malayalam cinema, praising its craftsmanship and storytelling. He...