Jayaram on why he has done only two Malayalam films after 2019, son Kalidas too makes a 'valid' point

Malayalam actor Jayaram has recently been busy in other South Indian industries, playing key characters in movies such as the Kannada epic blockbuster Kantara Chapter 1 alongside Rishab Shetty. The actor, a prominent star during the 1990s and 2000s, has had a lull phase in his home industry, having featured only in two Malayalam films after 2019. Jayaram, who will be next seen in the Malayalam movie Ashakal Aayiram, has now responded to why he is part of fewer Mollywood films, while his son and actor Kalidas too makes a valid point about monetary benefits.

Why Jarayam did only 2 Malayalam films in 6 years

During the Mathrubhumi International Festival of Letters, Jayaram sought to clarify why he has only acted in two Malayalam movies - Sathyan Anthikad’s Makal in 2022 and Abraham Ozler in 2024 - since 2019. But before he could elaborate, his son Kalidas quickly pointed out, “Nalla paisa yum kittum (which translates to you get good money as well)”

However, Jayaram said ‘not only that’, before adding, “I did not get characters that I aspired to see myself in or what viewers would be expecting from a Jayaram movie. It did not happen, that's why I did not select Malayalam movies. After a gap, a movie that came to me, which I felt would not disappoint viewers, was Ashakal Aayiram. And hence I chose this film when Jude approached me.”

Also read: Ashakal Aayiram: Trailer highlights that suggest this Kalidas-Jayaram film will be an entertaining watch 

Ashakal Aayiram, written by Jude Anthany Joseph and Aravind Rajendran, will release in theatres on February 6, 2026. His son Kalidas also plays a key role in the film, which also stars Asha Sharath, best known for Mohanlal’s Drishyam movies, and influencer-actress Ishaani Krishna. Other films releasing in the coming week include Indrans' film Aashaan on February 5 and actress Bhavana's movie Anomie on February 6.

Also read: Mammootty hails Indrans: His performances now put many actors to shame 

After Mohanlal and Mammootty, Jayaram was one of the most bankable stars in Malayalam cinema during the 1900s. Jayaram had drawn criticisms for his performance and script choices in Malayalam post 2010s, after which he became more active in Telugu and Tamil industries lately, playing mostly side characters. 

Jayaram movie FAQs

Q. Which is the new movie of Jayaram?

A. The new movie of Jayaram is Ashakal Aayiram, which also stars his son and actor Kalidas.

Q. When is Ashakal Aayiram releasing?

A. The movie Ashakal Aayiram is releasing in theatres on February 6, 2026, along with Bhavana's thriller film Anomie.

Q Which movie did Kalidas Jayaram win the National Award for?

A. Kalidas Jayaram won the National Award for best child actor for the movie Ente Veedu Appuvinteyum, which released in 2003.