Siju Wilson as Aarattupuzha Velayudha Panicker in Pathonpathaam Noottandu
Director Vinayan had earlier announced that he would be making a big-budget period film titled ‘Pathonpathaam Noottandu’. The film tells the story of Arattupuzha Velayudha Panicker, a brave Ezhava chieftain who lived in the 19th century. Last day, it was announced that Siju Wilson will be playing the lead role in this ambitious film. A first look poster featuring the actor in a warrior getup also got released online.
Arattupuzha Velayudha Panicker was the first martyr of the Kerala Renaissance movement. The leader stood for the marginalized community and fought against the caste system. He led several struggles for women including the ‘Mookuthi Samaram’ – a protest led for the Ezhava women, who were denied the right to wear nose studs.
For the past few months, Siju Wilson has been prepping up to play this iconic character. He developed a warrior’s physique apart from getting trained in horse riding and kalaripayattu. Siju has also shared a note in his social media handle thanking all those who stood by him during this period of transformation. He has written,
Dear All,
I’m very happy to announce my upcoming movie with Vinayan sir @director_vinayan , who had chosen me for this project, thereby trusting and motivating me that I could do justice to this role of the Historical hero Aarattupuzha Velayudha Panicker . As I look forward to work with this team, I consider myself lucky and blessed. Also wanted to offer gratitude towards Gopalan Sir, Krishnettan @director_krishnamoorthy and Sree Gokulam Movies @sreegokulammoviesofficial .
My transformation for this role could not have been possible without the help and guidance of my gym instructors – Jayaram ashan and @lifemukundan Mukundettan and Shifas @ali_shifas_vs of Parkway @parkwaykochi who trained me personally. Five months ago I could have never imagined that I can learn skills such as martial arts (Kalari )and horse riding. While undergoing the rigorous Kalari training by Benny Mashu, Rajath Mashu, Maheshettan, Vineeth and specific diet from Sumukha @kalakadram , Soumyatha @soumyathavarma and Jeenson Bhai @jinsonjousek were always there for my emotional and physical support in my tough times. Even the horse riding experience is not only very adventurous but also tough at the same time. All credit to Roy of Black Stallion Academy @black_stallion_horses and Yousaf Ikka of @vintage_horse_ridingclub,with the help of them I have improved a lot.
Love you @shruthivijayan.s for bearing my tantrums and harshness these times 😘.
While the shoot begins I consider it as the next phase because this has been a turning point for both My professional and personal life.Thanks to the people who had supported me in my transformation and helped me in this role. I request everyone out there to support and bless me in this new journey. #PathonpathaamNoottandu
