Mohanlal–Major Ravi’s ‘Pahalgam’ faces fan backlash even before official announcement

Director Major Ravi, known for his army-based patriotic dramas, is set to return with his next film titled Pahalgam, inspired by real-life missions Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev. The film, which began with a pooja ceremony at the Mookambika Temple, is envisioned as a tribute to Indian soldiers.

However, even before an official announcement, the project has sparked a wave of criticism from within Mohanlal’s own fan base, making it one of the most discussed upcoming Malayalam films online.

Several fans took to social media to express their disappointment over the actor’s collaboration with Major Ravi once again. One X user wrote,

“Heavy backlash has already begun on social media for the upcoming Lalettan–Major Ravi film, even before its official announcement. This time the criticism isn’t from outside — it’s from within the fan base.”

Another user, while defending the film’s premise, said,

“Operation Sindoor was one of the proudest moments in Indian history. I get that no one trusts his filmmaking, but I don’t think he’ll dare take such a subject and make a half-baked film.”

Many, however, voiced concerns over Mohanlal’s film choices, urging him to focus on stronger scripts.

“Lalettan is in the best form of his life — this might lead to another bad phase,” wrote one fan. “Don’t try to please political sides. You’ll lose a huge neutral and educated fan base.”

Despite the online backlash, the Pahalgam team appears determined to move ahead. The film is being produced by Major Ravi and Anoop Mohan under Presidential Movies International Pvt. Ltd., with plans for a pan-Indian release in multiple languages.

Astrologer Jithesh Panicker and filmmaker Jayaram Kailas were among those who attended the launch event and extended their wishes.

Major Ravi, who has previously delivered acclaimed military films like Keerthichakra and Picket 43, will once again explore the themes of valour and sacrifice. The film’s cinematography is by S. Thirunavukkarasu, with music composed by Harshavardhan Rameshwar.

As the controversy grows, fans remain divided — some hopeful that Major Ravi will recapture his earlier brilliance, and others skeptical about revisiting a collaboration that has previously seen mixed results.