Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju’s ‘Bethlehem Kudumba Unit’ has emerged as one of the notable Malayalam hits of the Onam season, drawing audiences to theatres even as it enters its second week. Directed by Girish AD, the romantic comedy combines family drama, humour and a love story centred on two neighbours whose lives become intertwined after Ashley and her family move to Karukutti.

With the film continuing its theatrical run, attention has now shifted to its digital premiere. While the makers are yet to officially confirm an OTT release date, ‘Bethlehem Kudumba Unit’ is expected to make its streaming debut on JioHotstar after its cinema run concludes. 

Bethlehem Kudumba Unit OTT release date: What we know

There is currently no official announcement regarding the exact OTT premiere date of ‘Bethlehem Kudumba Unit’. However, the film’s opening credits reportedly indicate that JioHotstar has acquired its digital streaming rights.

The film is therefore expected to arrive on the platform once its theatrical window comes to an end. An earlier report by Economic Times had also indicated that JioHotstar would stream the film following its theatrical release.

For now, viewers waiting to watch the Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju-starrer from home will have to wait for the production team to announce the streaming date.

What is Bethlehem Kudumba Unit about?

The film follows Justin Davis, an unmarried man in his 30s who is well-liked in his neighbourhood. His life takes an interesting turn when Ashley and her family move to Karukutti after returning from abroad.

Ashley becomes Justin’s neighbour, and their relationship gradually develops into the central thread of the story. The narrative also draws on memories of first love, family relationships and the possibility of second chances.

A wedding taking place in Ashley’s neighbourhood becomes an important trigger for old memories, adding another layer to the romantic storyline.

Bethlehem Kudumba Unit box office: Strong run continues

The film has maintained impressive momentum at the box office during its second week. According to trade tracker Sacnilk, ‘Bethlehem Kudumba Unit’ earned Rs 4.05 crore in India net on Day 14 from 1,855 shows.

Its cumulative India net collection has reached Rs 102.15 crore, while the India gross stands at Rs 119.25 crore. The film has also continued to perform strongly overseas, where it reportedly collected Rs 3 crore on its 14th day, taking its overseas gross to Rs 112 crore.

The worldwide gross collection has consequently reached Rs 231.25 crore.

The film recorded an overall occupancy of 50% on Day 14. The Malayalam 2D version registered 40.87% occupancy overall, with the strongest response coming from night screenings, which recorded 65.67%. Evening shows registered 46.05%, while afternoon and morning occupancy stood at 28% and 20.25%, respectively.

Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju lead the cast

Nivin Pauly stars as Justin Davis, with Mamitha Baiju playing Ashley. The supporting cast includes Sangeeth Prathap, Suresh Krishna, Roshan Shanavas, Shyam Mohan, Vinay Forrt, Srinda, Bindu Panicker and Meenakshi Raveendran.

Girish AD has directed and co-written the film with Kiran Josey. Vishnu Vijay is responsible for the music, while Ajmal Sabu has handled cinematography. Akash Joseph Varghese is the editor.

‘Bethlehem Kudumba Unit’ reached theatres on August 21, coinciding with the Onam festive period. As its theatrical run continues to hold up, the film is expected to make the transition to streaming once its cinema window is complete.