ZEE5, India’s premier home-grown video streaming platform and a multilingual storyteller, has unveiled the grand launch of ‘Manorathangal,’ a groundbreaking series marking a new era in Malayalam cinema. This monumental work celebrates the 90-year legacy of the esteemed literary figure Madath Thekkepaattu Vasudevan Nair, affectionately known as M.T. The series features an extraordinary ensemble of South India’s most renowned actors and filmmakers. The grand launch event was honored by the presence of the iconic actor Mohanlal who is in the lead role in one of the episodes of the captivating series and Aswathy V Nair, daughter of M.T. Vasudevan Nair who has directed one of the episodes of Manorathangal. At the event, Aswathy V Nair also presented the open letter by M.T. Vasudevan Nair showcasing his gratitude toward everyone who worked on Manorathangal with him.
‘Manorathangal’ stands as a cinematic masterpiece, delving into the complex duality of human nature against the picturesque backdrop of Kerala. Authored by M.T. Vasudevan Nair himself, the series brings together the zenith of Malayalam cinema’s acting and directing prowess. Through nine interconnected stories, it examines the paradoxes of human behavior, highlighting our capacity for both profound compassion and base instincts. By exploring the tension between our noble and primal sides, the series provides a rich, nuanced depiction of humanity that resonates with universal experiences and emotions. For the first time, such a distinguished cast and team of directors have united on ZEE5.
The anthology features nine gripping stories, each introduced by Padma Vibhushan Dr. Kamal Haasan. The series opens with ‘Ollavum Theeravum’ (Ripples and the River Bank), starring the legendary Mohanlal and directed by the acclaimed Priyadarshan. ‘Kadugannava Oru Yathra Kurippu’ (Kadugannava: A Travel Note) showcases the incomparable Mammootty under the direction of the talented Ranjith. ‘Shilalikhitam’ (Inscriptions) features Biju Menon, Shantikrishna, and Joy Mathew in a segment directed by Priyadarshan. ‘Kazhcha’ (Vision) stars Parvathy Thiruvothu and Harish Uthaman, directed by the visionary Shyamaprasad. ‘Vilpana’ (The Sale) includes Madhoobala and Asif Ali, under the direction of the promising Aswathy Nair. ‘Sherlock’ features the versatile Fahadh Faasil and Nadiya Moidu, directed by the innovative Mahesh Narayanan. ‘Swargam Thurakkunna Samayam’ (When the Doors of Heaven Open) boasts a stellar ensemble cast, including Kaillash, Indrans, Nedumudi Venu, Enji Panicker, and Surabhi Lakshmi, and is directed by Jayarajan Nair. ‘Abhyam Theedi Veendum’ (Once Again, In Search of Refuge) stars Siddhique, Ishit Yamini, and Nazir, with direction by the renowned Santosh Sivan. Finally, ‘Kadalkkaattu’ (Sea Breeze) features Indrajith and Aparna Balamurali, directed by Rathish Ambat.
Mohanlal stated, “When I was approached for this story written by MT sir, I honored it as a guru Dhakshina to him. Manorathangal premiered on ZEE5 on August 15th. This unique project features nine screenplays originally crafted for the OTT medium, which have now been transformed into films by renowned directors, actors, and technicians from Indian cinema. My heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to bringing these timeless stories, written across different eras, to a global audience through this initiative.”
Since its release on ZEE5, Manorathangal has been gaining immense admiration and admiration across the industry and most importantly the audience.
