Actor Jiiva recently revealed that he turned down an opportunity to star alongside Malayalam superstar Mohanlal in the 2024 film 'Malaikottai Vaaliban'. The reason? He didn’t like the character’s getup.

In an interview with 'Cinema Vikatan', Jiiva shared details of his decision to decline the role of the main villain, Chamathakan, in the film, which was directed by Lijo Jose Pellissery.

The character of Chamathakan is a vengeful figure who loses a bet to the hero, Vaaliban, and as part of the wager, shaves off half of his hair, beard, and moustache. This disfigured appearance eventually fuels the character’s desire for revenge. 

Jiiva had previously worked with Mohanlal in the Malayalam film Keerthi Chakra, where he appeared in a prominent role alongside the legendary actor. However, this time, despite the prospect of reuniting with Mohanlal, Jiiva chose to turn down the role in Malaikottai Vaaliban.

"I had an opportunity to act with Lal sir in Malaikottai Vaaliban. It was a villain role, but I didn’t like the character’s getup... I told Lijo that I wouldn’t be doing the film. Many directors approached me during that period with roles, but I was very clear, I wouldn’t play a character with half my head shaved and half my moustache. I wouldn’t even be allowed to enter my own house like that!" he recalled. 

Jiiva’s refusal to take on the role of Chamathakan surprised many, the role was later taken over by actor Danish Sait. Despite the character’s unusual appearance, Chamathakan became quite popular on-screen, with audiences reacting positively to the unique look and the character's vengeful side.