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Prithviraj Sukumaran on Khalifa’s clash with I’m Game and Bethlehem Kudumba Unit: ‘We were the 1st to announce but…’
Prithviraj Sukumaran starrer Khalifa is the upcoming action entertainer, directed by Vysakh.
Prithviraj Sukumaran is all set to headline Khalifa, which is scheduled to release in theaters on August 20, 2026. Arriving during the Onam festive season, the film is set to share its release window with Nivin Pauly’s Bethlehem Kudumba Unit and Dulquer Salmaan’s I’m Game.
Now, the Varanasi actor has opened up about the release window, sharing his thoughts on the simultaneous releases and expressing hope that all three films will perform well.
Prithviraj Sukumaran about Khalifa’s clash with I’m Game and Bethlehem Kudumba Unit
Speaking with The Cue Studio, Prithviraj Sukumaran said, “When we announced that a film like Khalifa would release in theaters for Onam 2026, no other movie had been announced at that time. I remember it was my birthday, October 16, 2025, when we made the announcement. Back then, everyone questioned why we had locked the release date almost a year in advance.”
The actor continued, “I believe we were also the first to announce August 20 as the release date. However, it's okay. During a festive season, it's fine to have more than one release. I believe audiences will watch all the films in theaters, especially if they are good. They will support all three movies.”
Speaking further about Khalifa, Prithviraj added, “Khalifa is an out-and-out commercial entertainer. What attracted me to the film was its engaging story. The film is inspired by a real person whom Jinu Abraham (screenwriter) and I met back in 2017.”
The actor-director also revealed that the team initially had no plans to introduce the character of Mambarakkal Ahmed Ali. However, after completing a few shooting schedules, they felt confident enough to expand the story with a prequel featuring Mohanlal in the role.
Khalifa: Part 1 follows Aamir Ali, a prominent figure who oversees a vast gold-trading network spanning the Middle East, London, Nepal, and Kerala. The story explores themes of legacy, ambition, and family heritage as Aamir inherits a long-established enterprise from his grandfather, Mambarakkal Ahmed Ali.
The film follows his journey as he strives to uphold his family's legacy while leading a business empire built over generations. Directed by Vysakh, the film also features Neil Nitin Mukesh in a pivotal role.
Meanwhile, Dulquer Salmaan’s high-stakes action entertainer I’m Game and Nivin Pauly’s romantic comedy Bethlehem Kudumba Unit are also set to arrive in theaters during the Onam festive season.
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