The Kerala High Court has been approached by Abdal Rahim, father of A R Afan — an accused in the sensational Venjaramoodu multiple murder case — seeking a stay on the release of the Malayalam film Kaalam Paranja Kadha, alleging that it is based on the same incident.
Afan is currently in custody for allegedly murdering four individuals: his brother, uncle, aunt, and girlfriend, in Venjaramoodu on February 24, 2025. He also reportedly attempted to kill his mother, who survived with serious injuries.
In his petition, Rahim contended that the upcoming film, directed by Prasad Nooranad, is a fictional retelling of the family tragedy. He argued that public release of the film, its trailer or other promotional material, would amount to a media trial and could significantly prejudice the ongoing judicial proceedings. It would not only influence potential witnesses but also violate Afan’s right to a fair trial, he submitted.
Further, Rahim expressed concern over the impact such a portrayal would have on the reputation and emotional well-being of the family. He urged the court to impose a complete embargo on the film’s release and promotional activities until the trial concludes.
The petition names several parties as respondents, including the Union of India, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and its regional officer, the State Police Chief, Karunagappally Krishnankutty, and the film’s director, Prasad Nooranad.
Responding to the allegations, director Nooranad told PTI that Kaalam Paranja Kadha has no link to the Venjaramoodu incident. “Though the film also deals with a murder within a family, it has no connection with the Venjaramoodu case. The family might have formed such an impression after seeing the recently released trailer,” he clarified.
Nooranad said he is willing to submit the film for a pre-release screening if the court so directs. The film is reportedly set to hit theatres soon.
