The wait is finally over for fans of Malayalam cinema! The much-anticipated comedy-fantasy Padakkalam on OTT, starring the ever-versatile Suraj Venjaramoodu, is now available for streaming on JioCinema from June 10, 2025. After a successful theatrical run and generating buzz for its offbeat storyline, the film makes its OTT debut—perfect for those who missed the theatre experience or want to enjoy it all over again.
Padakkalam on OTT: A Fantasy Ride Through Campus Chaos
Padakkalam is not your usual college drama. It’s a quirky mix of campus comedy, supernatural elements, and body-swapping mayhem—all unfolding within the vibrant world of comic-book-obsessed students. When a mysterious new professor joins the faculty, his arrival stirs up unexpected consequences, including a magical twist that turns the campus upside down.
Key Plot Elements:
The true, semi-traditional, and a little idealistic professor Shaji, played by Suraj Venjaramoodu, finds himself caught in an awkward position where he gets into ridicule.
Enter Ranjith, the charismatic and unconventional professor, played by Sharaf U Dheen. He quickly becomes the favorite of students.
Their rivalry takes a bizarre turn when a magical comic book triggers their identities, giving rise to confusion, chaos, and laughter galore.
Supporting Cast:
Niranjana Anoop, Pooja Mohanraj, Saaf, Arun Pradeep, Arun Ajikumar, and Ishan Shoukath
Direction & Writing:
Directed by debutant Manu Swaraj, who brings a fresh visual style and tone
Script by Nithin C Babu, with dialogues that combine satire, wit, and youthful energy
Technical Crew:
Cinematography by Anu Moothedath – captures both the everyday college life and the surreal fantasy elements with flair
Music by Rajesh Murugesan – adds emotional and comic depth
Editing by Nidhin Raj Arol – keeps the fast-paced narrative tight and engaging
Performance Highlights
Suraj Venjaramoodu once again proves his versatility, delivering both subtle humor and situational comedy with finesse.
Sharaf U Dheen brings charm and mystery to his character, with a role that blends confidence, ambiguity, and eccentricity
The younger cast, especially Sandeep Pradeep, shines with relatable portrayals of modern college youth.
Box Office Journey
Released theatrically on May 8, 2025, Padakkalam was made on a modest budget of ₹7.5 crore. It went on to become a sleeper hit, earning over ₹11 crore in India and performing well in the UAE, Qatar, and other GCC territories. Its unique genre-blending appeal attracted youth audiences and families alike.
Why Watch It on OTT?
If you missed the big-screen experience, Padakkalam is a perfect OTT pick. Here’s why:
Original Plot – A rare body-swap comedy in Malayalam cinema
Short Runtime – A brisk 2-hour watch packed with laughs and twists
All-Age Appeal – Light-hearted yet smart, suitable for both youth and family audiences
Cultural Relevance – Explores themes of student–teacher dynamics, social media culture, and the escapism of comics
Critical Reception
Critics had mixed feelings, but most praised its originality and fun tone. While some pointed out inconsistencies in the screenplay, others appreciated the performances and the bold attempt to break away from formulaic storytelling.
“A delightful escape into a magical campus world… Suraj and Sharaf are in top form.” – Malayalam Movie Buffs Weekly
“It’s messy at times, but Padakkalam never stops being entertaining.” – The South Screen Review
Padakkalam on OTT: Where to Watch
Streaming Now on: JioCinema
Language: Malayalam, Hindi
Subtitle Options: English, Hindi, Tamil
Duration: 2 hours 3 minutes
Final Thoughts: A Must-Watch for Malayalam Fantasy-Comedy Fans
Padakkalam offers a magical blend of humor, heart, and harmless chaos. Whether you’re a fan of Suraj Venjaramoodu’s comic brilliance, a lover of campus tales, or someone who enjoys fantasy-driven narratives, this film is sure to bring a smile to your face.
So grab your snacks, call your friends or family, and dive into the fun-filled world of Padakkalam—now streaming on JioCinema!
