I’ll be losing weight for Odiyan even if it is by starving: Mohanlal

Mohanlal’s Odiyan is arguably one of the most anticipated movies in South India. The movie has an unique theme, which has rarely been tried in Indian cinema. It is a fantasy film that will have a mix of action, romance and magical realism.

Odiyan marks the debut directorial of renowned ad filmmaker VA Shrikumar Menon and is written by National award winner Harikrishnan. The movie is primarily about Odividya, a black magic practice, and people who practice it, who are called Odiyan. There are a lot of stories and myths about Odiyans and their life in Kerala’s folklore. The first schedule was recently wrapped up in Varanasi.

There have been lot of talks about Mohanlal undergoing physical transformation for Odiyan, as his character in the movie demands it. He is essaying the role of Odiyan Manikyan and he will be seen from the age of 30 to 65 in multiple looks. The first look poster of the movie had Mohanlal in a clean shaven look with a lot trimmer physique. It is learnt that the veteran star will be training hard to achieve a similar look.

In a recent interaction session conducted by Manorama Online, one of Mohanlal’s fans asked him about his preparations for playing the role of Odiyan Manikyan. Mohanlal elaborated about how the makers have designed a few character looks for the different age groups he will be playing. He assured that he will be shedding down his weight even if it’s by starving.

An odiyan is someone who can take any shape, he can crawl and also run at high speed. Mohanlal’s Odiyan Manikyan is a terrific athlete who is mastered in Odividya. He can run on four legs and jump higher than normal people. So, Mohanlal needs to be in good shape to perform such stunts.

Peter Hein, who choreographed the amazing stunts in Pulimurugan, has been roped in to train Mohanlal. The movie also stars Manju Warrier and
Prakash Raj. Mohanlal’s own banner Aashirvad Cinemas is funding this big budget movie, which is eyeing a massive release by March next year.