Malayalam actor Joju George has stirred debate within the film industry after alleging that a prominent actor and the actor's wife have been orchestrating a paid public relations campaign to tarnish his reputation. The allegations were made during an Instagram Live session held after the release of his latest film, ‘Varavu’. 

Without identifying anyone, Joju claimed that a coordinated effort was underway to damage both his personal image and the reception of his latest release. While he stopped short of naming those he was referring to, his remarks have fuelled widespread speculation across social media and the Malayalam film fraternity.

The actor also suggested that such tactics are no longer isolated incidents, alleging that organised PR operations have become increasingly common within the Malayalam film industry.

Joju alleges paid PR has become widespread

During the live interaction, Joju expanded his claims beyond his own experience, alleging that several well-known figures in Malayalam cinema rely on paid publicity campaigns.

"I am aware of such activities, but I won't disclose any names or provide further details."

Although he declined to identify anyone, the actor indicated that the issue extends beyond a single individual or family, describing it as a broader industry practice.

His comments have since sparked discussions online about the growing influence of digital publicity strategies and alleged negative campaigns surrounding film releases.

Claims ‘Varavu’ became target of organised negativity

Joju also addressed the response to ‘Varavu’, claiming that the criticism directed at the film was not entirely spontaneous.

According to the actor, organised efforts were allegedly made to shape public opinion against the film following its theatrical release. He suggested that coordinated campaigns had contributed to the negative discourse surrounding the project.

Directed by Shaji Kailas, ‘Varavu’ is set in Kerala's high ranges and marks another collaboration between the filmmaker and screenwriter AK Sajan, who previously worked together on ‘Chinthamani Kolacase’ and ‘Red Chillies’. The film also stars Saniya Iyappan, Arjun Ashokan and Murali Gopy in key roles.

Despite the controversy, the film opened to mixed-to-negative reviews, with many viewers criticising its storytelling and treatment as reminiscent of commercial Malayalam cinema from the 1990s.

Film records modest opening at box office

Commercially, ‘Varavu’ made a modest start after its theatrical release.

According to reports, the film earned an estimated Rs 51 lakh gross across India on its opening day. Advance bookings accounted for around 10,310 tickets, while approximately 25,580 additional tickets were sold on the first day, taking overall ticket sales to nearly 35,890.

The film's box office performance has remained under scrutiny as discussions surrounding Joju's allegations continue to dominate conversations online.

Lakshmi Menon's Instagram story fuels speculation

The controversy gained further momentum after vlogger Lakshmi Menon, the wife of actor Mithun Ramesh, shared an Instagram Story that many social media users interpreted as a response to Joju's remarks.

The story read, "Isn’t this the regular performance of that henpecked husband and his wife? We are above all that, chetta (brother)."

Although Lakshmi did not mention any names, her post intensified speculation over the identity of the celebrity couple Joju had referred to during his live session.

Identity of alleged couple remains unconfirmed

Since Joju deliberately avoided naming anyone, no individual has been officially linked to his allegations.

The remarks have nevertheless prompted widespread speculation across social media, with users attempting to identify the actor and spouse he was referring to. Some online discussions have also revived earlier claims alleging that certain industry figures have previously been associated with organised negative publicity campaigns targeting other Malayalam films.

However, none of these claims have been independently verified, and no official confirmation has emerged regarding the identity of the couple mentioned in connection with Joju George's allegations.