Neil Nitin Mukesh debuts Malayalam film industry with ‘Khalifa’; Prithviraj Sukumaran welcomes the actor with new poster

The makers of the director Vysakh’s revenge thriller ‘Khalifa’ have announced that Bollywood actor Neil Nitin Mukesh has joined the team. The lead star welcomed him to the Malayalam film industry. The announcement was made on Thursday, which also happened to be Neil’s birthday.Actor Prithviraj Sukumaran, who plays the lead role in the film, shared a poster and wrote, “Happy birthday, Neil Nitin Mukesh! Welcome to the Malayalam film industry! #KHALIFA.” Neil also reacted and said he is proud to make his Malayalam debut with the film. Prithviraj Sukumaran plays a character named Aamir Ali in Khalifa. Earlier, on his birthday, the actor had shared a glimpse video and wrote, “A revenge forged by a lineage that spans generations! Next Onam... Aamir Ali will write his vengeance in gold! #KHALIFA - The Ruler.” The story follows Aamir Ali, a gold smuggler who carries forward his family business and past. The film promises strong emotions, revenge, and powerful action scenes. The glimpse video begins with a news voice saying that police and customs officials have found a multi-million dollar gold smuggling racket from the Middle East, with links to London, Nepal, and Kerala. A customs officer named Panicker says that Aamir is finished. Another character replies by explaining the history of the COFEPOSA Act and says, “Aamir is the grandson of that very same Ahmed Ali.” The scene ends with a warning that real fireworks will follow. ‘Khalifa’ is directed by Vysakh and written by Jinu V Abraham. The film brings Prithviraj and Vysakh together after 15 years, following ‘Pokkiri Raja.’ Interestingly, Mohanlal appears in a cameo in the first part and will have a bigger role in the second part.The music is composed by Jakes Bejoy. The film’s technical team also includes Jomon T. John, Chaman Chacko, and Yannick Ben.The first part of Khalifa is planned for an Onam 2026 release.