Bharathanatyam is a 2024 Indian Malayalam-language comedy drama film written and directed by Krishnadas Murali (in his directorial debut). The film stars Saikumar, Saiju Kurup, Abhiram Radhakrishnan, Kalaranjini, and Sreeja Ravi. The film depicts a young man's struggle to protect a family secret from their nosy neighbours and villagers.
Principal photography began in March 2024 in Thrissur and was wrapped up in April 2024. Samuel Aby composed the music and background score. Bharathanatyam was released in theatre's on 30 August 2024.
Sasi, the eldest son of Bharathan Nair, comes from a traditional family with three younger siblings. He leads an active social life and is a respected member of the local temple committee. One day, Bharathan Nair suffers a stroke, and doctors inform Sasi that his father's days are numbered. On his deathbed, Bharathan Nair reveals a shocking secretâÂÂhe has another wife and a child, whom he wishes to see one last time.
This revelation throws Sasi's life into turmoil as he struggles to come to terms with his father's hidden past.
Samuel Aby composed the film's music and background score, with lyrics written by Manu Manjith.
The film was given a U certificate by the Censor Board prior to its release. Prime Video and ManoramaMax acquired the digital distribution rights and began streaming on 27 September 2024.
Arjun Ramachandran of The South First rated the film 3/5 stars and wrote: "A feel-good entertainer with a compelling story and convincing performances". Vivek Santhosh of The New Indian Express rated the film 3/5 stars and wrote: "An entertaining and self-aware family comedy". Rohit Panikker of Times Now rated the film 3/5 stars and reviewed: "An Entertaining Film With Its Share Of Laugh Out Loud Moments".
Even though the film underperformed in theatres, the film became huge success on OTT platforms with earning over 58 Million streaming minutes.
In November 2025, a sequel titled Mohiniyattam was announced. The film is directed by Krishnadas Murali, who co-wrote with Vishnu R. Pradeep. The sequel continues the storyline of Bharathanatyam with a reportedly darker and more eventful narrative tone. Filming of Mohiniyattam was completed in January 2026, with principal cast members including Saiju Kurup, Kalaranjini, Sreeja Ravi, Jinil Rex, and Jivin Rex returning to reprise their roles. New additions to the cast include Vinay Forrt, Jagadish, Suraj Venjaramoodu, rapper Baby Jean, Nisthar Sait, and Santhosh K. Nayar. The production wrapped up its shoot on 7 January 2026, marking the end of principal photography ahead of its planned theatrical release.