‘Prathichaya’ Not Based on Oommen Chandy or Solar Case, Clarifies B. Unnikrishnan

Director B. Unnikrishnan has clarified that his upcoming film ‘Prathichaya’, starring Nivin Pauly, is not based on the life or controversies of late former Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy.

In an interview with Manorama News, the filmmaker said the movie does not target Chandy or draw from the Solar scam case during his tenure. While admitting he had political differences with Chandy, Unnikrishnan said he is “not politically blind” to overlook what he considers the injustice faced by the leader. He also remarked that current Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has received comparatively less support or consideration from sections of the media.

At the same time, Unnikrishnan stressed that ‘Prathichaya’ is a fictional political drama and should not be linked to some particular real-life individuals or incidents. The film, which is set for release on March 26, 2026, features Nivin Pauly in the lead, alongside Sharaf U Dheen and Balachandra Menon, with a strong supporting cast including Sharafudheen, Sabitha Anand, Maniyanpilla Raju, Nishanth Sagar, Ann Augustine, Harisree Ashokan, and Vishnu Agasthya.

Produced by Gokulam Gopalan under Sree Gokulam Movies in association with RD Illuminations LLP, the film is expected to explore themes of power, perception, and political conflict, carrying the tagline, “Between the ups and downs… destiny waits.”