Kochi: Following the success of the hit film Unda, the title poster for director Khalid Rahman’s next venture, Mattanchery Mafia, starring Mammootty, has been released. The film, a gangster action-comedy, is produced by B Rakesh and Khalid Rahman under the banners of Plan B Motion Pictures and Universal Cinemas.

While the black-and-white poster has thrilled cinema buffs, fans have been busy ‘decoding’ a specific detail. On the right side of the poster, there is an image of a person bearing a striking resemblance to actor Ramesh Pisharody, with the word "Vijayippikkuka" (Ensure Victory) written below it.

Followers claim this is a subtle endorsement and a gesture of good luck for Ramesh Pisharody, who is contesting as the UDF candidate in Palakkad for the upcoming 9 April Assembly elections. However, Mammootty’s official note accompanying the post simply stated his delight in sharing the title poster of his second collaboration with Khalid Rahman.

A strong bond beyond the screen

The friendship between Mammootty and Ramesh Pisharody is well-known within the industry, with Pisharody often regarded as the megastar’s "right-hand man." This bond was further evidenced on Saturday when Mammootty made a video call to Pisharody to offer his blessings just before the candidate filed his nomination papers.

The call came through at 11:45 am on the phone of producer Anto Joseph as Pisharody was leaving the DCC office in Palakkad. Mammootty, who is currently in Chennai for Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations, conveyed his best wishes for the election. MP Shafi Parambil and other Congress workers were present during the call.

"He is someone I communicate with every day. Mammookka is perhaps the person I have discussed and debated politics with the most," Pisharody stated recently. "He provides suggestions and opinions on everything. While I don't want to force anyone from the film industry to campaign for me, I believe that if I win, I can certainly bring him to the constituency."