Kochi: The upcoming Malayalam film Prathichaya, starring Nivin Pauly and directed by B. Unnikrishnan, has triggered widespread discussion on social media over alleged references to former Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy.

The debate picked up after film trackers circulated two images online that quickly went viral. One features Oommen Chandy with a forehead injury, while the other shows a scene from the film in which actor Balachandra Menon appears with a similar injury. The other image shows a tomb, which many users claim bears a striking resemblance to that of the late Chief Minister.

The visual similarity has prompted speculation among netizens that the film may be inspired by Chandy’s life.

On October 27, 2013, Chandy, then-Kerala CM, suffered minor injuries to his forehead and chest after protesters pelted his car with stones in Kannur. The incident happened during violent protests led by LDF workers over a solar panel scam, breaking the car's rear window, with flying glass hitting him.

Despite the growing buzz, director B. Unnikrishnan has clarified that Prathichaya is not based on the late Congress leader’s life. However, the discussions continue to gain traction across platforms, including X, Facebook and Instagram.

With Kerala heading into an election season, there is also speculation about whether the film could trigger political controversy.

The film features a strong ensemble cast, including Balachandra Menon, Sharaf U Dheen, Ann Augustine, Harisree Ashokan, Maniyanpilla Raju, Saikumar, Sabita Anand and others in key roles.

Prathichaya is produced by Gokulam Gopalan under the banner of Sree Gokulam Movies in association with RD Illuminations LLP. The cinematography is handled by Chandru Selvaraj, while the music is composed by Justin Varghese.

The film is slated for a theatrical release on March 26.