Kamal Haasan, Mohanlal, Mammootty, Fahadh Faasil Star in ZEE5’s ‘Manorathangal’

The South Asia-focused streaming platform ZEE5 is set to unveil a captivating Malayalam-language anthology series titled “Manorathangal.” The nine-part series is scheduled to premiere on August 15 and celebrates the 90-year literary legacy of iconic writer M.T. Vasudevan Nair by bringing together some of South India’s top talent.

Penned by Nair himself, the series delves into the complexities of human duality, set against the scenic backdrop of Kerala. Kamal Haasan introduces the anthology, with each story uniquely exploring the tension between noble and primal human instincts.

The anthology features an impressive lineup of A-list actors and acclaimed directors. Mohanlal stars in “Olavum Theeravum” (“Ripples and the River Bank”), directed by Priyadarshan. Mammootty takes the lead in “Kadugannava Oru Yathra Kurippu” (“Kadugannava: A Travel Note”), directed by Ranjith. “Shilalikhitam” (“Inscriptions”), another piece by Priyadarshan, features Biju Menon. Parvathy Thiruvothu stars in Shyamaprasad’s “Kazhcha” (“Vision”), while Madhoo and Asif Ali feature in “Vilpana” (“The Sale”), directed by Aswathy Nair.

Fahadh Faasil leads in Mahesh Narayanan’s “Sherlock.” Jayarajan Nair directs an ensemble cast in “Swargam Thurakkunna Samayam” (“When the Doors of Heaven Open”), featuring Kaillash, Indrans, and Nedumudi Venu. Santosh Sivan directs “Abhyam Theedi Veendum” (“Once Again, In Search of Refuge”), starring Siddhique. The anthology concludes with “Kadalkkaattu” (“Sea Breeze”), starring Indrajith and Aparna Balamurali, directed by Rathish Ambat.

Manish Kalra, ZEE5 India’s chief business officer, emphasized the project’s importance in showcasing the creativity and depth of Malayalam-language cinema. To broaden its appeal, “Manorathangal” will be available in dubbed versions in Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, and Telugu.

Expressing his delight, Priyadarshan remarked on his gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside Nair. “I have fulfilled a big dream,” he commented, referring to his involvement in the project.

Mammootty lauded Nair’s ability to stay relevant over generations. He described “Manorathangal” as “a piece of M.T.’s soul,” noting the rarity of anthology films in Malayalam cinema. He added, “The film was shot in Sri Lanka and aims to evoke a sense of nostalgia among those who have grown up reading M.T.’s works.”

Source: Variety, Particle News, Global Bulletin