Mohanlal in Khalifa: Is this just the beginning? Prithviraj drops a big hint

Mohanlal’s appearance in Prithviraj Sukumaran’s upcoming film Khalifa may be brief for now, but it could be setting the stage for a much bigger story. Speaking at a promotional event in Dubai, Prithviraj revealed that Mohanlal’s character, Mambarakkal Ahmed Ali, only makes an introduction in the first part of the film, while hinting that his story could take centre stage in a possible sequel.

Directed by Vysakh, Khalifa tells a large-scale story set against the backdrop of gold smuggling. Prithviraj plays Aamir Ali, while Mohanlal makes a guest appearance as Aamir’s father, Mambrakkal Ahmed Ali.

According to Prithviraj, having Mohanlal play Ahmed Ali was something the entire team wanted. When the actor was approached for the role, he agreed to be part of the film.

“We all wanted Lalettan to play Mambrakkal Ahmed Ali. When we approached him, I believe it may also have been because of his love for me that he said, ‘Mone, definitely, I’ll do it.’ He came and did the character,” Prithviraj said at the Dubai promotional event.

However, audiences should not expect Ahmed Ali’s complete story to unfold in Khalifa.

Mohanlal’s character could have a bigger role in Khalifa 2

Prithviraj revealed that Mohanlal’s character is introduced in the first film, with details about his past and world emerging through conversations and events in Aamir Ali’s story.

“In this film, there is only an introduction to the character. That is all you can expect,” Prithviraj said.

He added that if Khalifa receives a strong response and becomes a success, the story could continue with a second part focusing on Ahmed Ali.

Khalifa is positioned as the first part of a larger story, with the first film primarily following Aamir Ali. While Ahmed Ali’s presence is limited, the film is expected to offer clues about who he was, the world he belonged to and his story.

This has also sparked curiosity about what role Mohanlal could have in a potential Khalifa 2, where Ahmed Ali is expected to have greater importance.

Prithviraj and Vysakh reunite after Pokkiri Raja

Khalifa marks the reunion of Prithviraj and director Vysakh after Pokkiri Raja. The film has a strong action focus, with Bollywood actor Neil Nitin Mukesh playing the antagonist.

Malavika Sharma is the female lead, while Indrans is also part of the cast in a very important role.

The film carries the tagline “Revenge will be written in gold”, fitting its gold-smuggling backdrop and action-driven storyline.

Jomon T. John is the cinematographer, while Chaman Chakko handles the editing. The film has been shot across locations in India and abroad, with music composed by Jakes Bejoy.

A song sung by Sid Sriram and Maqbool Mansoor has already caught the attention of audiences.