Mohanlal’s upcoming Malayalam film Athimanoharam has faced a setback after the Kerala Forest Department declined permission for the makers to shoot scenes at the Sabarimala Sannidhanam. The department reportedly cited existing restrictions governing filming and photography in the protected and high-security temple region.
Directed by Tharun Moorthy, Athimanoharam has already generated considerable attention as it reunites the filmmaker with Mohanlal following their earlier collaboration on Thudarum. However, the production team will now have to reconsider its shooting plans for sequences intended to be filmed in and around Sabarimala.
Athimanoharam Sabarimala Shoot Permission Denied
The Sabarimala Sannidhanam and surrounding forest areas come under the Periyar Tiger Reserve, where commercial filming is subject to strict regulations. According to officials, permission has not been granted for Athimanoharam to conduct its planned shoot at the temple complex or nearby locations.
The Forest Department reportedly based its decision on the latest directions from the Kerala High Court. Restrictions have previously been imposed on general photography, videography and the operation of specialised equipment, including helicams, within sensitive areas surrounding the Sabarimala temple.
As a result, the makers of Athimanoharam will be unable to proceed with filming at the Sannidhanam under the present circumstances. It remains to be seen whether the production team will identify an alternative location or make changes to the sequences planned for Sabarimala.
Mohanlal Athimanoharam Reunites Star With Tharun Moorthy
Athimanoharam marks another collaboration between Mohanlal and director Tharun Moorthy after Thudarum. The new project also becomes the first Mohanlal film to be produced under the Aashiq Usman Productions banner.
Ratheesh Ravi has written the screenplay, while cinematographer Shaji Kumar is handling the visuals. Shaji Kumar has previously worked with Mohanlal on projects including Thudarum, adding another familiar collaborator to the team.
The film is expected to combine drama with elements surrounding the professional and personal life of its central character. More details regarding the revised shooting schedule are expected as production progresses.
Mohanlal Plays Police Officer Loulajan in Athimanoharam
Mohanlal will be seen playing Loulajan, a police sub-inspector whose seemingly ordinary routine changes dramatically following a series of unexpected events. The story is said to explore challenges emerging in both his personal and professional life.
Meera Jasmine has been cast as the female lead, adding further interest to the project. The pairing and the reunion between Mohanlal and Tharun Moorthy have made Athimanoharam one of the notable upcoming Malayalam films currently under production.
The Sabarimala permission issue now presents the team with a logistical challenge, though there is no indication so far that it will significantly affect the overall production of the film.
Tharun Moorthy Film Adds to Mohanlal’s Upcoming Lineup
Apart from Athimanoharam, Mohanlal is also set to collaborate with director Jude Anthany Joseph on another upcoming project. The actor recently announced the association by sharing a photograph with the filmmaker on social media.
That film is expected to release next year, adding to Mohanlal’s busy slate of projects. Meanwhile, attention will remain on Athimanoharam as the makers work around the restrictions at Sabarimala and continue production at other locations. With Mohanlal leading the cast, Tharun Moorthy directing and Meera Jasmine playing a prominent role, Athimanoharam continues to carry strong expectations despite the Forest Department’s decision regarding its proposed Sabarimala shoot.
