This Onam season, Malayalam cinema will see major releases from Prithviraj Sukumaran and Nivin Pauly. Prithviraj's much-awaited 'Khalifa' is scheduled to hit theatres on August 20, while Nivin Pauly's 'Bethlehem Kudumba Unit' will follow a day later, releasing on August 21.

In 'Khalifa', Mohanlal plays the grandfather of Prithviraj Sukumaran's character. The first installment, titled 'The Intro', focuses on the origins of the Mambarakkal family empire and its bloody past. The sequel is expected to revolve around the reign of Mambarakkal Ahmed Ali.

'Bethlehem Kudumba Unit' marks the first on-screen collaboration between Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju. The film's release announcement poster features the duo walking through a railway platform carrying their luggage after getting off a train. A romantic comedy, the film is expected to bring plenty of laughter to theatres during the Onam festive season.

The film is directed by Girish A.D., who has quickly established himself as one of Malayalam cinema's most successful young filmmakers through hits such as Thanneer Mathan Dinangal, Super Sharanya, and Premalu.

The movie also marks the first collaboration between Nivin Pauly and the acclaimed production house Bhavana Studios, raising audience expectations for another quality entertainer.

'Bethlehem Kudumba Unit' is the sixth production from Bhavana Studios and the banner's first film after the blockbuster Premalu. The film is produced by Dileesh Pothan, Fahadh Faasil, and Syam Pushkaran under the Bhavana Studios banner. The screenplay is jointly written by Girish A.D. and Kiran Jose.