As Onam approaches, Malayalam cinema is set for an exhilarating clash of stars and stories with a host of highly anticipated films hitting theatres. This year's Onam releases promise a thrilling ride for moviegoers, featuring big names like Mohanlal, Fahadh Faasil, Kalyani Priyadarshan, Naslen Gafoor, Shane Nigam, and Sivakarthikeyan.

After the mid-summer break, Onam releases have become one of the most awaited events in the Malayalam film industry. With multiple films hitting theatres every year, this period is crucial for filmmakers, often leading to box office hits. Last year, Asif Ali's Kishkindha Kaandam and Tovino Thomas' Ajayante Randam Moshanam were massive successes. However, this year's competition is shaping up to be even fiercer, with a strong mix of established stars and rising talent bringing their best to the screen.

This year's Onam releases include Mohanlal and Sathyan Anthikad's Hridayapoorvam, a film expected to blend nostalgia with heartwarming storytelling. Fahadh Faasil will lead Althaf Salim starrer Odum Kuthira Chadum Kuthira touted to be a fun ride, while Shane Nigam will headline the high-octane sports drama Balti. Meanwhile, backed by Dulquer Salmaan, Lokah - Chapter 1- Chandra, starring Kalyani Priyadarshan and Naslen Gafoor, will introduce Malayalam cinema to its first female superhero.

The films are expected to pull in audiences with their compelling plots and star-studded casts, marking Onam 2025 as one of the most competitive in recent years.

Additionally, Tamil superstar Sivakarthikeyan is all set to bring his charm with the action-packed Madharasi alongside director A.R. Murugadoss, making it a cross-regional feast for cinephiles.

As the end of August and the first week of September approach, audiences are eagerly awaiting these big-budget releases, keen to see which film will emerge as the winner of this Onam’s cinematic showdown.

This Onam will see the celebration of vibrant cinema. The countdown has begun, and moviegoers are eagerly awaiting to see who will reign supreme at the box office this festive season.

The box office showdown

Hridayapoorvam

Mohanlal and Sathyan Anthikad's iconic partnership returns with Hridayapoorvam, their 20th collaboration. The film stars Malavika Mohan as the female lead, with a talented supporting cast including Sangeeth Prathap and Siddique. The movie will be released on August 28th. This is the duo's first collaboration in a decade, marking a highly anticipated return for fans of their evergreen hits like Nadodikkattu and T. P. Balagopalan M. A.

Lokah - Chapter 1 - Chandra

Produced by Dulquer Salmaan, Lokah - Chapter 1- Chandra introduces Malayalam's first female superhero, played by Kalyani Priyadarshan. Directed by Dominic Arun, the film also stars Naslen Gafoor and is expected to showcase a stellar cast including Tovino Thomas and Dulquer Salmaan in future chapters. This highly budgeted film is set to hit theatres on August 29th and is part of a planned cinematic universe.

Odum Kuthira Chaadum Kuthira

Directed by Althaf Salim, this family comedy-drama stars Fahadh Faasil alongside Kalyani Priyadarshan and Revathi Pillai. Produced by Ashiq Usman, the film has generated buzz with its unique blend of humour and drama. It will release on August 28th.

Balti

Shane Nigam’s 25th film, Balti, is an action-packed sports drama directed by debutant Unni Shivalingam. The movie centers on Udayan, a kabaddi player, with significant focus on action and music. With a gripping narrative and an exciting soundtrack by Sai Abhyankkar, Balti is expected to be released in late August.

Madharasi

Sivakarthikeyan teams up with director A.R. Murugadoss for an action-packed film featuring Biju Menon in a key role. The film is set for release on September 5th, the day of Thiruvonam. The soundtrack, composed by Anirudh Ravichander, is already generating anticipation as cinephiles are eagerly waiting for the release of the movie.

This Onam season promises a strong line-up of films catering to diverse tastes, from family comedies and superhero adventures to sports dramas and action thrillers. Moviegoers are eagerly awaiting the releases of these highly anticipated films, each bringing something unique to the big screen.