Bha Bha Ba hits theatres tomorrow: Can Dileep’s film withstand boycott calls?

The upcoming release of Dileep’s new film Bha Bha Ba on December 18 has sparked protests and boycott campaigns across Kerala, as public outrage continues over the actor’s acquittal in the high-profile sexual assault case involving a Malayalam actress survivor.

According to reports, Kerala is witnessing widespread protests as Dileep’s new Malayalam film Bha Bha Ba prepares to release on December 18. While the actor was acquitted in the high-profile sexual assault case involving a Malayalam actress survivor, public outrage remains intense, with many calling the verdict a travesty of justice.

Boycott campaigns gain momentum

Multiple organisations in Kerala have launched boycott campaigns against Bha Bha Ba. A notable incident occurred on a Thiruvananthapuram-Kalpetta long-distance bus last week, where a group of women passengers protested the screening of the Dileep-starring film. The screening was halted, reflecting strong public sentiment against the actor despite his acquittal.

Pre-release buzz and box office anticipation

Despite the backlash, Bha Bha Ba has generated significant pre-release excitement. Reports indicate that pre-sale tickets for the film’s opening day have exceeded ₹1 crore. The movie, promoted as a mass comedy-action entertainer, benefits from a solo Christmas release and a special guest appearance by Mohanlal, which has further boosted hype. Online platforms have seen over ten thousand tickets booked per hour in the run-up to its release.

Directed by debutant Dhananjay Shankar, Bha Bha Ba stars Dileep alongside Vineeth Sreenivasan and Dhyan Sreenivasan. Written by Fahim Safar and Noorin Shereef, the film blends action, comedy, songs, and thrills, carrying the tagline “World of Madness”. The title represents Bhayam Bhakthi Bahumanam—Fear, Devotion, and Respect. Fan shows are scheduled to begin from 8 am on December 18, aiming for a grand opening across Kerala.

Public sentiment versus box office strategy

While the film enjoys commercial anticipation due to its festive release and Mohanlal’s cameo, critics and sections of the public argue that screening a film starring Dileep undermines the concerns of the assault survivor and wider social accountability. The debate has intensified discussions around ethical consumption in Malayalam cinema and the responsibility of audiences in responding to controversial figures.

As Bha Bha Ba hits theatres, the clash between box office enthusiasm and public outrage over the assault case is likely to dominate conversations in Kerala and across Malayalam cinema circles.