Ithiri Neram star Anand Manmadhan on his recent films, looking at gender bias | Exclusive

Anand Manmadhan, a Malayalam actor, had a decent year in 2025 with some films that best showcased his acting abilities. Ithiri Neram, his most recent film, is currently available for streaming on Sun NXT, Amazon Prime Video, and OTTplay Premium. Anand discussed how gender bias was addressed in his most recent films, Ithiri Neram and Aabhyanthara Kuttavaali, in an interview with OTTplay.

'Ithiri Neram, Aabhyanthara Kuttavaali have relevant themes'

The actor stressed that gender stereotypes were addressed in both of his most recent films, Ithiri Neram and Aabhyanthara Kuttavaali, in a pertinent and persuasive way. "Aabhyanthara Kuttavaali examines a distinct aspect of several divorce cases, whereas Ithiri Neram examines how society at large views the complexities of romantic relationships. He declared, "Both are equally important stories to tell." Many told him that they could relate to the topics covered in these films, according to Anand. 

'Ponman, a turning point in career'

Anand noted that the most significant turning points in his film career came from Ponman and Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey. "I'm not sure if I'll ever play a role like Bruno in Ponman again. I am incredibly appreciative of the positive feedback I received for my performance as Bruno," he remarked. The actor continued by saying that once, while he was standing close to a tea stall, a food delivery man came up to him and complimented Anand's portrayal in Ponman's lodge scene, saying that his circumstances were similar to Bruno's. He talked about how playing such characters forces him to step beyond his calm character comfort zone.

'Love working with Senna Hegde'

The young artiste added that his favourite filmmaker to collaborate with was Senna Hegde. "Working with him and his team is a lot of fun. He added how much he liked the director's most recent movie, Avihitham, saying, "His style of filmmaking is distinctive and entertaining at the same time as his sense of humour is impressive."

(Ithiri Neram, Aabhyanthara Kuttavaali, Ponman, Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey, and Avihitham can be enjoyed on OTTplay Premium)

Ithiri Neram FAQs

Q. Where can I watch Ithiri Neram?

A. You can watch the 2025 Malayalam movie Ithiri Neram on Sun Nxt via OTTplay Premium. Roshan Mathew and Zarin Shihab play the lead roles in the film

Q. What is Ithiri Neram about?

A. Ithiri Neram is about two former lovers who meet one evening and spend their time talking about their past life and decisions. A heartwarming tale, the film was lauded for its simple yet beautiful tale.