By Grace Cyril,News18

Copyright news18

Malayalam superstar Mammootty is getting ready to return to the film set after a break for health reasons. The 72-year-old actor, loved by audiences for more than five decades, had stepped away from shooting earlier this year to undergo treatment. His absence worried fans and created a wave of prayers across Kerala and beyond. Now, they can breathe a sigh of relief as the actor is preparing to join the team of his new film Patriot on October 1.
Mammootty returns to shooting
Filmmaker Mahesh Narayanan, who is directing Patriot, confirmed the news in an interview with OnManorama. “We’re all thrilled to have Mammookka back on set,” he said, adding that the team is eager to continue filming with the veteran star.
Mahesh further explained that Mammootty’s absence did not disrupt the production schedule. The crew used the period to shoot sequences involving other cast members. “I would visit his house to show him edits. He was completely part of the process, even if he wasn’t on location,” the director revealed.
Directed by Mahesh Narayanan, the film has a huge star cast, including Mohanlal, Nayanthara, Fahadh Faasil, Kunchacko Boban, and Darshana Rajendran. Mahesh, who earlier made Take Off and C U Soon, revealed that almost 65–70 per cent of the film is already complete.
The team has already shot in the UAE, Sri Lanka, and parts of India. The remaining work will mostly happen in Kerala and the UK. Mohanlal has finished his scenes, while Mammootty has already given 45 days of shoot before taking a break.
Shooting plans ahead
The next leg of filming will feature key scenes between Mammootty and Mohanlal before the production team shifts to the UK for an international schedule. Actor Ramesh Pisharody also recently confirmed that Mammootty will participate in portions to be shot in Hyderabad. Alongside Mammootty, the film also features Fahadh Faasil and Kunchacko Boban.
Mammootty’s health concerns
Reports first surfaced in March that Mammootty was stepping back from films due to health issues. At the time, his team dismissed speculation that he had cancer. In August, Mammootty announced his recovery, while his long-time friend and co-star Mohanlal spoke publicly about praying for him during his treatment.
“I prayed for him in Sabarimala…I prayed elsewhere as well. He went for treatment while we were working on Patriot. From what I’ve heard, I understand he’ll be back to work next month. He will start by finishing his dubbing work. Because of his health, there will be medical restrictions for a while before he can shoot,” Mohanlal told Manorama News.