‘Pongala’ breaks tradition: Malayalam film to hit theatres on a Sunday for the first time

Pongala, starring Sreenath Bhasi, is set to make history as the first Malayalam film ever to release on a Sunday. The film will arrive in cinemas on 30 November.

Written and directed by A. B. Binil, Pongala is produced by Deepu Bose and Anil Pillai under the banners Global Pictures Entertainment and Junior 8, with Dona Thomas serving as co-producer. The film is being distributed by Grace Film Company.

Described as a powerful story with strong social and political underpinnings, Pongala is an action-focused film based on a true incident. It marks Sreenath Bhasi’s next major release following the success of Manjummel Boys. The action-comedy thriller was shot extensively in the Vypin–Cherai region.

Set against the backdrop of a harbour in the early 2000s, the narrative draws from real events that unfolded along the Vypin–Munambam coast. The film features an extensive ensemble cast, including Yami Sona, Baburaj, Sudheer Karamana, Sadiq, Sampath Ram, Alencier, Kichu Tellus, Suryakrish, Indrajith Jagajith, Jeemon George, Murugan Martin, Sminu Sijo, Shanthakumari and Renu Sundar.

Key crew members include cinematographer Jackson, editor Ajas Pukkadan, music composer Ranjin Raj, makeup artist Akhil T. Raj, costume designer Soorya Shekhar and art director Nidheesh Acharya. The production controller is Seven Arts Mohan, with stunt choreography by Mafia Sasi, Raja Sekhar and Prabhu Jacky. Vijaya Rani handles choreography, with Manju Gopinath as PRO. Obscura Entertainment oversees digital promotions, Jijesh Vadi handles stills, and Arjun Jibi is in charge of design. Marketing is managed by Bringforth.