The iconic Malayalam film 'Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha', written by legendary writer M.T. Vasudevan Nair and directed by Hariharan, is set for a re-release. Starring Mammootty in the lead role, the film reimagines the folklore of Chandu Chekavar, traditionally portrayed as a traitor in Vadakkan Pattukal (Northern Ballads), presenting him instead as a misunderstood warrior.  

In a conversation with actor Ramesh Pisharody on Mammootty Kampany’s YouTube channel, the veteran actor shared insights into how he was cast as Chandu and how the film reshaped popular perceptions.  

"If I remember correctly, it was PVG who called me. He said they were making a film based on the story of Unniyarcha, and I would be playing Chandu. I was initially hesitant, asking, ‘Am I playing the villain?’ But when I heard that MT Vasudevan Nair was writing the script and Hariharan sir was directing, I immediately agreed," Mammootty recalled.  

Mammootty also opened up about an accident he faced while filming. Since the movie was heavily based on martial arts and horseback riding, the actor had to perform multiple action sequences involving swords and stunts.

One such scene required Mammootty to toss a sword into the air and catch it. However, after multiple retakes, the sword missed its mark and accidentally pierced his thigh, causing a deep wound.

"All the swords used in the film were real metal and quite heavy. In one particular shot, I had to jump and catch a falling sword, but I missed, and it pierced my thigh. It cut deep, and the pain was intense. But the shoot didn’t stop. Since the wound was in a place not visible on camera, we continued filming. I still carry the scar today," he said. 

He emphasized that storytelling always depends on perspective. "In the orginal ballad, Chandu was a traitor because those stories were told from Unniyarcha’s and Aromal Chekavar’s point of view. But M.T. explored the story from Chandu’s perspective—what he might have thought, how he saw those events, and what truly happened."  

However, Mammootty noted that the film remained faithful to the folk legends despite telling story in Chandu's perspective. "Not a single scene from the traditional stories is missing. Everything is there—the way Chandu trained in the Kalari (martial arts school), his childhood, how his uncle raised him, and, of course, the infamous betrayal. But as the film unfolds, we see Chandu as a tragic warrior rather than just a villain." 

Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha, released in 1989, starred Mammootty alongside Balan K. Nair, Suresh Gopi, Madhavi, Geetha, and Captain Raju. The film received critical acclaim and multiple awards, with Mammootty winning the National Award for Best Actor for his performance.