Kochi, India - As the release date for "Vilayath Buddha" nears, Prithviraj Sukumaran has addressed the comparisons being made between his character, Double Mohanan, and Allu Arjun's iconic Pushparaj from the "Pushpa" film series. At a recent media event in Kochi, Prithviraj clarified that the similarities are purely coincidental and that the script for "Vilayath Buddha" was conceived long before "Pushpa: Part 1" hit the screens.
The trailer for "Vilayath Buddha" recently dropped, and social media was abuzz with comparisons to "Pushpa", with many viewers calling it "Malayalam's Pushpa" or "Prithviraj's Pushpa". The comparisons arose due to the film's gritty tone, forest backdrop, and the protagonist being a smuggler.
Prithviraj explained that the film is based on G.R. Indugopan's acclaimed novel of the same name and was originally envisioned by filmmaker Sachy, who tragically passed away before he could direct it. The script was jointly adapted by Indugopan and Rajesh Pinnadan. "When Sachy first brought me this idea, 'Pushpa' hadn't even released," Prithviraj stated. "We never knew that another film on sandalwood smuggling was being made or that it would grow into such a massive phenomenon."
Prithviraj also addressed a specific dialogue from the trailer that many felt echoed the tone of "Pushpa". He clarified that the line was added for promotional purposes and might not even appear in the final film. "Double Mohanan, the character I play, does not resemble Pushpa in any way," he asserted. He acknowledged that audiences unfamiliar with the novel might draw parallels, but the team is aware of the discussion and wanted to address it directly.
"Vilayath Buddha" is set in the sandalwood forests of Marayur, Kerala, and revolves around the conflict between a retired teacher, Bhaskaran Master (played by Shammi Thilakan), and his former student, Double Mohanan, a sandalwood smuggler. Their conflict arises over a valuable sandalwood tree planted by Bhaskaran Master. The film explores themes of revenge, rivalry, and romance, promising an emotionally charged and intense cinematic experience. Priyamvada Krishnan stars as the female lead, with Anu Mohan, Rajashri Nair, and T.J. Arunachalam in pivotal roles.
The film is directed by Jayan Nambiar and features music by Jakes Bejoy, cinematography by Arvind Kashyap and Renadive. "Vilayath Buddha" is produced by A.V. Anoop under Urvashi Theatres and AVA Productions.
Prithviraj's recent works include "Aadujeevitham" and "Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil," both of which have been commercially successful. He is also slated to appear in "Salaar: Part 2 - Shouryanga Parvam". Prithviraj is also directing "L2: Empuraan," a sequel to his directorial debut, "Lucifer".
"Vilayath Buddha" is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on November 21, 2025.
