6 Malayalam movies that can challenge Lokah's Rs 300-Cr milestone at the box office in 2026

As we enter 2026, much-awaited Malayalam films, including Mohanlal’s Drishyam 3 and Mammootty’s Patriot, are set to be released in theatres, aiming for record-breaking box office numbers like Lokah.

Malayalam cinema raised the box office bar in 2025 with Lokah Chapter 1 Chandra notching up the unprecedented Rs 300 crore. As we enter 2026, several much-awaited Malayalam films, including Mohanlal’s Drishyam 3 and Mammootty’s Patriot, are set to be released in theatres, aiming for record-breaking box office numbers. Here is a look at 6 Malayalam movies that can challenge Lokah's Rs 300-Cr milestone at the box office in 2026

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6 Malayalam films seeking to break into Rs 300 crore club in 2026

Drishyam 3

Malayalam superstar Mohanlal and director Jeethu Joseph would be back with Drishyam 3, continuing with Georgekutty’s fight to protect his family from the police force. Every Drishyam 3 update is being keenly followed by netizens and the film is certain to have a blockbuster opening. If the film keeps up the intrigue and mystery of its predecessors, Drishyam 3 has a good chance of entering the Rs 300 crore next year. Notably, Mohanlal’s Empuraan was the highest-grossing Malayalam film before Lokah toppled it to become the all-time blockbuster.

Patriot

Megastar Mammootty’s much-awaited film will once again see him joining hands with the other big M of Malayalam - Mohanlal. Not just the stalwarts, director Mahesh Narayanan’s film also features a dream ensemble cast, with the likes of Fahadh Faasil and Nayanthara coming on board. This adds to the film’s prospects at the box office, along with a thrilling espionage tale, packed with plot twists and actions.

Kathanar – The Wild Sorcerer

Malayalam actor Jayasurya leads the upcoming film Kathanar in the titular role of the Christian priest. South star Anushka Shetty makes her Malayalam debut with the film, which adds more gravitas to the Jayasurya-starrer. If Kathanar does break the record of Lokah, it would be a cinematic twist as well. For the unversed, it is the Kathanar character who subjugates Kalliyankattu Neeli in the folklore, whose tale was reimagined in Lokah.

Bethlehem Kudumba Unit

Malayalam actor Nivin Pauly's latest film Sarvam Maya looks on course to be a hit. Nivin Pau ly, who promises more entertainers in 2026, will be seen in Bethlehem Kudumba Unit by filmmaker Girish AD, who is known for 2024 hit Premalu. Notably, Premalu star Mamitha Baiju will also star in Bethlehem Kudumba Unit, sparking more interest among viewers.

Khalifa

Malayalam actor Prithviraj Sukumaran makes a stylish return to high-octane films as he plays Aamir Ali, a kingpin of the smuggling world. Superstar Mohanlal too would also be part of Vyskah film, reuniting with his Pulimurugan director. The Khalifa teaser, Mohanlal’s cameo have already amped up excitement for the film, which is expected to be an Onam 2026 release.

Also read: 7 Most-awaited Malayalam star cameos of 2026: Mohanlal in Khalifa, Mammootty in Chatha Pacha and more

Suriya 47

This one is a killer combination - Tamil superstar Suriya with Malayalam director Jithu Madhavan, best known for Fahadh Faasil’s Aavesham. Nazriya Nazim too returns to cinema with this film, which also features young star Naslen. Popular composer Sushin Shyam, known for his Ilumminatti song from Aavesham, has also been roped in for Suriya 47, which went on floors earlier this month.

2026 Malayalam movies FAQs

Q. What is the next movie of Mohanlal 2026?

A. The next major movie of Mohanlal in 2026 is Drishyam 3, helmed by Jeethu Joseph. The Malayalam superstar will also be seen in Patriot, along with cameos in Prithviraj Sukumaran's Khalifa and his daughter Vismaya's Thudakkam.

Q. What is the biggest movie of 2026?

A. The most-anticipated Malayalam movie of 2026 is Drishyam 3, starring Mohanlal, the third instalment of the popular franchise. Patriot, starring Mohanlal and Mammootty, is also much-awaited.

Q. Is Premalu 2 coming?

A. Premalu 2 was announced in 2024, but no official update has been given about Girish AD's film with Naslen and Mamitha Baiju.

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