Amid dispute with Tovino Thomas over Vazhakku’s release, director Sanal Kumar Sasidharan releases film on Facebook: ‘For anyone who wants to watch’

 

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Their dispute centres around the commercial release of their 2022 collaboration. Sanal Kumar publicly accused Tovino of hindering the film’s release in both theatres and on OTT platforms, allegedly due to concerns over the potential negative impact on the actor’s career. In an earlier Facebook post, the director claimed that the film, made on a budget of Rs 50 lakhs, was completed within two weeks, with Tovino and Girish Nair of Parrot Mount Pictures serving as co-producers.

The allegations quickly went viral, prompting Tovino to address the issue alongside co-producer Girish, in an Instagram Live session. The actor denied the claims and clarified that the decision to produce the film was driven by his respect for Sanal Kumar’s craft, adding that he invested a considerable amount in the production without expecting any returns.

Tovino further explained that his suggestion of a direct OTT release was meant to ensure the film would reach its intended audience. However, Sanal Kumar’s unwillingness to hand over creative rights to streaming platforms allegedly caused a stalemate. Tovino also recounted that the director rejected the idea of participating in the virtual Mumbai Film Festival (MAMI), citing concerns about potential online leaks.

Vazhakku, featuring a stellar cast including Kani Kusruti, Sudev Nair, Azees Nedumangad, and Byju Netto, premiered at the 27th International Film Festival of Kerala and won multiple accolades at the 54th Kerala State Film Awards. Despite its acclaim, the film’s future remains uncertain as Tovino and Sanal Kumar refuse to bury the hatchet.