Kallanum Bhagavathiyum, a Malayalam fantasy-comedy from 2023, combines spirituality and humor into a lighthearted story. The film was directed and produced by East Coast Vijayan. It is based on K. V. Anil’s novel with the same title. The film, with its unique storyline and divine theme, aims to entertain audiences through a comedic lens while delivering a socially-conscious message.
Release Date and Platform for OTT
The film was released theatrically on March 31st, 2023 in Kerala and other areas with good attendance. Kallanum Bhagavathiyum, which had a successful theatrical run, premiered on Amazon Prime Video in May 2023. The film can now be streamed in Malayalam, with subtitles. This allows a wider audience to enjoy the movie.
Plot Overview
The story revolves about Mathappan Unni – a small-time thief who has no direction in his life. He tries to steal one night from a temple, but fails. This incident leads him Priyamani who takes him to Bhagavathy’s (Goddess Devi) hidden temple. He plans to steal and sell the idol, thinking it will bring him riches.
But fate has different plans. Mathappan almost drowns while escaping from the river with the idol. He is miraculously rescued by what he thinks are invisible hands, hinting at divine intervention. The Goddess appears to him when he comes back to consciousness. This alters the course of his entire life.
The journey that follows is comical and touching, as the presence of the goddess leads Mathappan to redemption. Mathappan starts a new life with Priyamani after the Goddess moves to a temple. Through humor and spirituality, the film explores themes such as transformation, faith and the unseen hands of destiny.
Cast and Characters
- Vishnu Unnikrishnan as Kallan Mathappan
- Mokksha as Bhagavathy
- Anusree Priyamani
- Johny Antony, Shankaran the Enchanter
- Althaf Salim in the role of Ambi, Enchanter’s Assistant
- Rajesh Madhavan as Vallabhan
- Prem Kumar as SI Sudheendran
- Maala parvathy is Lakshmi Priyamani’s mother
Salim Kumar is joined by Johny Antony and Rajesh madhavan in the supporting roles. Prem Kumar and Maala parvathi are also featured, as well as Jayan Cherthala and Noby Marcose.
Crew Details
- Director & Producer: East Coast Vijayan
- Screenplay: East Coast Vijayan & K. V. Anil
- Music: Ranjin Raj
- Ratheesh ram, cinematographer
- Editing: Johnkutty
- Production House: East Coast Communications
Mokksha makes her Malayalam film debut in this role, and was praised by critics for her grace on screen. The filmmakers noticed a “divine aura” during the casting process. This was especially true for Mokksha.
Reception
Both critics and audience members gave Kallanum Bhagavathiyum mixed to positive reviews. Some praised the film’s attempt to merge mythology and contemporary social issues. Others found that it was unevenly paced. The performances of Vishnu Unnikrishnan, Mokksha and Ranjinraj, as well as the lively background score, were all highly praised.
The conclusion of the article is:
Kallanum Bhagavathiyum tells a story of redemption, faith, and transformation with humor and fantasy. The film, which is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video in Malayalam, offers a lighthearted spiritual story wrapped up in comic relief. This divine comedy speaks to human experience in surprising and endearing manners.