Mohanlal-Starrer ‘Athimanoharam’ Hits Roadblock: Sabarimala Shoot Denied Permission
Kochi, Kerala – The highly anticipated Malayalam film ‘Athimanoharam’, starring superstar Mohanlal, has encountered a significant hurdle in its production schedule. The film crew’s plans to shoot crucial scenes at the sacred Sabarimala temple premises have been rejected by the Forest Department, citing a recent High Court order. This development casts a shadow over the film’s narrative, which is largely set against the iconic backdrop of Sabarimala.
The Forest Department’s decision stems from the fact that the Sabarimala temple area falls within the ecologically sensitive Periyar Tiger Reserve. Consequently, any filming activity within this protected zone requires explicit approval from the Forest Department. While the Travancore Devaswom Board had initially granted its conditional approval for the shoot, this was contingent upon securing the necessary clearance from the Forest Department. The conditions imposed by the Board included submitting the complete script to ensure no religious sentiments or temple beliefs were offended, and a security deposit of Rs 50,000.
Despite the setback at Sannidhanam, the production team has received permission to film in areas up to Pampa, which falls under the Ranni Forest Division. Director Tharun Moorthy and his team are now expected to adjust their shooting plans to accommodate this restriction, potentially revising scenes that were intended for the temple’s immediate vicinity.
‘Athimanoharam’ marks a much-anticipated reunion between Mohanlal and director Tharun Moorthy, following the success of their previous collaboration, ‘Thudarum.’ Meera Jasmine stars as the female lead, reuniting with Mohanlal on screen after a considerable hiatus. Mohanlal portrays a police sub-inspector in the film. Beyond the Pampa and Sabarimala regions, the movie has also been filmed in diverse locations such as Thodupuzha, Kochi, Hyderabad, and Mumbai.
With approximately 80 percent of the film’s shooting already completed, the crew is now focused on wrapping up the remaining portions. The makers are aiming for a Christmas release, a timeline that will undoubtedly keep expectations high for fans eager to witness the magic of the Mohanlal-Tharun Moorthy partnership once again. The production team is now working diligently to navigate these logistical challenges and ensure the film’s timely completion.
The upcoming Mohanlal-starrer ‘Athimanoharam’ has hit a roadblock over its planned Sabarimala shoot.
