'Ashish Anthony plays a very important role in Thudakkam': Mohanlal introduces Antony Perumbavoor’s son at daughter Vismaya’s film launch

It was a day filled with emotions and nostalgia as Malayalam superstar and Dadasaheb Phalke Award winner Mohanlal introduced not one, but two star kids stepping into cinema. At the launch of his daughter Vismaya Mohanlal’s debut film ‘Thudakkam’, the veteran actor also introduced Ashish Antony, son of his close friend and producer Antony Perumbavoor, to the audience.

A double debut for Two Families

The film’s muhurat pooja ceremony took place on Thursday morning at Crown Plaza, Kochi, marking a memorable milestone for both families. Pranav Mohanlal gave the first clap, while Suchitra Mohanlal lit the ceremonial lamp, symbolizing a new beginning for their daughter.

Mohanlal’s heartfelt reflections

According to Mathrubhumi.com, speaking at the event, Mohanlal shared his pride and surprise. “When I was in Class 6, I won the Best Actor award and so did my son Appu (Pranav). But I never thought I’d become an actor, or that my children would follow me. My daughter is named Vismaya because my life has always been full of surprises,” he said with a smile. “When she decided to act, we gave her our full support. Now both my children have to work hard, I can only be a catalyst,” he added warmly.

Introducing Ashish Antony

The actor also took a lighthearted moment to introduce Ashish Antony, son of Antony Perumbavoor. “He plays a very important role in this film, and it’s none other than Antony’s son. This was entirely unplanned. When we were going through the script, I asked if he could take up the role. He had acted before, too,” Mohanlal revealed. Joking about the collaboration, he added, “Antony’s son too has a major role, but this is not a family affair,” drawing laughter from the audience.

Antony Perumbavoor on the emotional collaboration

Producer Antony Perumbavoor called the project “something that cannot be expressed in words,” adding that ‘Thudakkam’ feels deeply personal. “Vismaya’s decision to act was a collective one, and Jude [Anthany Joseph] has now become like family,” he said.

A proud mother’s moment

For Suchitra Mohanlal, the day was especially emotional. “I speak as Vismaya’s mother, not as Mohanlal’s wife. When she was eight and Appu was 12, we made a small home movie together. This year is special, Lal received the Phalke Award, Appu has a new film, and Vismaya begins her journey,” she said fondly.

The director’s surreal experience

Director Jude Anthany Joseph, who helms ‘Thudakkam’, admitted he was “more nervous than Vismaya,” calling the moment surreal. “I grew up as a fan of Mohanlal, and now I’m directing his daughter,” he said with pride.

Ashish Antony shares his excitement

Ashish Antony, who also stars in ‘Thudakkam’, said he was “excited and proud as both families come together for something so special.”

A legacy of friendship and cinema

‘Thudakkam’ is produced by Aashirvad Cinemas, founded in 1999 by Antony Perumbavoor, who once worked as Mohanlal’s trusted driver. In 2000, he produced the blockbuster ‘Narasimham’, which laid the foundation for what is now one of Malayalam cinema’s most successful production houses.