Odiyan The Age of Illusion: Plot, Myth, and Cast [Explained]

Odiyan The Age of Illusion is the upcoming Malayalam folklore horror film directed by Rahul Sadasivan, starring Prithviraj Sukumaran and Manju Warrier, and marking the regional debut of Dharma Productions. The announcement looks like a standard co-production on paper, but it is actually a calculated move by a Bollywood giant to tap into Kerala's thriving psychological thriller market.  

Produced jointly by Karan Johar's Dharma Productions and Prithviraj Productions, Odiyan The Age of Illusion will explore the 19th-century Kerala legend of shape-shifting figures. The film is directed by Rahul Sadasivan, the filmmaker behind critically acclaimed folk horror hits like Bramayugam and Bhoothakaalam. It features Manju Warrier and Prithviraj Sukumaran in the lead roles, bringing heavy star power to a deeply rooted local myth.  

Why Dharma Is Betting on Malayalam Folklore

The Hindi film industry is increasingly looking south for storytelling muscle, and Dharma Productions is leading that charge with Odiyan The Age of Illusion. The decision to partner with Prithviraj Sukumaran is no accident. The two banners previously collaborated on the Hindi features Selfiee and Sarzameen, but this marks their first joint venture on Prithviraj's home turf.  Rahul Sadasivan is the crucial variable here. Following the massive critical and commercial success of Bramayugam, Sadasivan has proven he can turn dense Kerala folklore into profitable, atmospheric cinema. Dharma is not just funding a regional film. They are investing in Sadasivan's specific brand of high-concept horror.

What Is the Odiyan Myth?

At the core of the narrative is the Odiyan, a mythical figure from the Malabar region. According to local legend, an Odiyan is a shape-shifter who practices "Odividya", allowing them to transform into animals and terrorise people in the dark. These myths thrived in the era before electricity, serving as terrifying cautionary tales for local communities. The new film will place this dangerous figure against the backdrop of a powerful matriarchal household, promising a battle between truth and psychological illusion. Interestingly, Manju Warrier previously starred in a 2018 film also titled Odiyan, which featured Mohanlal as the shape-shifter. This new project is entirely unconnected to the 2018 release and promises a much darker, horror-driven approach under Sadasivan's direction.  

What's Next

The film will be released in Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi. Expect a massive theatrical push across India. Following its theatrical run, it will stream domestically and for the diaspora audience in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia via a major global OTT platform.  

Quick Facts

• Director: Rahul Sadasivan

• Producers: Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, Supriya Menon

• Cast: Prithviraj Sukumaran, Manju Warrier

• Language: Malayalam (with pan-India dubs)

• Status: Announced
  

FAQ

What is the Odiyan myth?

The Odiyan is a mythical figure from Kerala folklore who possesses the ability to shape-shift into animals. The legend claims they used dark magic to terrify or assassinate targets under the cover of night.  

Is Odiyan The Age of Illusion a remake of the 2018 movie?

No, it is a completely original story directed by Rahul Sadasivan. While both films share the same core folklore and feature actress Manju Warrier, the new film leans heavily into atmospheric horror rather than fantasy drama.  

When is Dharma Productions Malayalam debut releasing?

An official release date for Odiyan The Age of Illusion has not been announced yet. The film is currently in the pre-production phase following its official announcement in June 2026.  

Who is the director of Rahul Sadasivan new movie?

Rahul Sadasivan, known for Bramayugam and Bhoothakaalam, is directing Odiyan The Age of Illusion. He is recognized for blending psychological tension with deep-rooted Kerala folklore.