Ahead Of Release, Mammootty's Bramayugam Caught In Character Naming Controversy

Mammootty’s upcoming horror thriller ‘Bramayugam’ has found itself amidst a brewing controversy merely days before its global premiere on February 16. Directed by Rahul Sadasivan and produced by Night Shift Studios and YNOT Studios, the film stars Mammootty alongside Arjun Ashokan and Sidharth Bharathan in pivotal roles. However, the spotlight has shifted from the film’s anticipation to a legal dispute surrounding the name of Mammootty’s character.

A recent petition filed in the Kerala High Court urged a modification in the character’s name from Kunjumon Potty to Kodumon Potti. The move came after objections were raised by the head of Punjamon Illam, a traditional Brahmin household in Kerala, citing concerns over the portrayal’s potential to tarnish their family name. The petitioner expressed apprehension that the film’s depiction of Kunjumon Potty could cast a negative light on their lineage, leading to a loss of societal respect and honour.

The petitioner asserted, “If the name of the lead character and its traditional home is not changed, the same will cause serious prejudice to the petitioner, his family members, ancestors and successors,” while seeking the revocation of the film’s certification.

In response, the filmmakers swiftly took action by opting to alter the character’s name to Kodumon Potti. This decision was reflected across various platforms, including editing the song Kunjumon Potti Theme to Kodumon Potti Theme on YouTube, with corresponding changes made to posters and promotional materials.

Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, the producers also submitted a request to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to officially change the character’s name. As a result, updates have been made across Wikipedia pages, soundtracks and online content to reflect the revised nomenclature of Mammootty’s character in the film.

The ongoing controversy has raised discussions regarding creative liberties and cultural sensitivities in cinema, highlighting the complex interplay between artistic expression and societal norms. With Bramayugam set for its theatrical release, all eyes are on how the resolution of this dispute may impact the film’s reception among audiences.