Expectations are high as Prithviraj Sukumaran is teaming up with Vysakh after a long gap for the upcoming film ‘Khalifa’.Prithviraj Sukumaran has now revealed the story behind Mohanlal‘s much-awaited appearance in the actioner. The veteran ‘Drishyam’ actor will be seen as Mambarakal Ahamed Ali, the grandfather of Prithviraj Sukumaran’s character, Mambarakal Aamir Ali. According to Prithviraj Sukumaran, Mohanlal took up the role out of affection and friendship.Speaking at a promotional event in Dubai, Prithviraj Sukumaran recalled how the team approached Mohanlal after completing the screenplay. He said the makers had always wanted Mohanlal to play the character.As quoted by Reporter website, Prithviraj said, “After the screenplay of ‘Khalifa’ was completed, we knew there would be another character who would be the grandfather of Mambarakal Aamir Ali. All of us wanted Lalettan to play Mambarakal Ahamed Ali. When we approached him, perhaps it was because of his affection for me that he agreed. He said, ‘Mone, I will definitely do it,’ and took up the role.”
Mohanlal’s character will only be introduced
Prithviraj Sukumaran also clarified that audiences should not expect the complete story of Mambarakal Ahamed Ali in the first instalment.“But there is one thing I want to point out. The poster in which we announced that Lalettan is playing the character itself says ‘Khalifa Part One: The Intro’. So, only the introduction of Lalettan’s character will be there. That is all you should expect,” the ‘Varanasi’ actor said.
‘Khalifa’ sequel could explore his complete story
Prithviraj Sukumaran has also opened up about the possibility of a second part. He said the complete story of Mambarakal Ahamed Ali could be explored if the first movie receives a positive response.“If, by God’s grace, you like this movie and it becomes a success, there will definitely be a second part. The complete story of Mambarakal Ahamed Ali will be told in it.”‘Khalifa’, directed by Vysakh and starring Prithviraj Sukumaran, is gearing up for a worldwide theatrical release on August 20. The movie is arriving as an Onam release and has already completed its censoring process. It has received a U/A 16+ certificate.Prithviraj Sukumaran plays Mambarakal Aamir Ali in the movie. South Indian actress Malavika Sharma plays the female lead. Mohanlal appears as Mambarakal Ahamed Ali in the first part.
Strong supporting cast joins the movie
The cast of ‘Khalifa’ also features several prominent actors. Renji Panicker, Shivajith, Indrans, Shammy Thilakan, Shine Varghese, Mohini, Kyra and Master Nafash are part of the ensemble.Meanwhile, Nivin Pauly’s ‘Bethelehem Kudumba Unit’ is also releasing on Onam.
