Bethlehem Kudumba Unit, which has reportedly crossed Rs 325 crore at the worldwide box office to become the highest-grossing Malayalam film of all time, has received praise from Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan. In a heartfelt social media post, Satheesan said the Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju-starrer brought back memories of his younger days through its portrayal of village life, human relationships and romance.
The film made such an impression on the Chief Minister that he broke his usual practice of not writing public appreciation notes after watching movies. He also revealed that his busy schedule had disrupted his long-standing habit of watching at least one film every month.
After a prolonged break, Satheesan watched Bethlehem Kudumba Unit in one sitting with his daughter and her friend. He said the experience left him feeling refreshed and emotionally connected to the story.
“What makes the film different is its treatment. Not once did I feel bored. I could instantly connect with it because it reminded me of my younger days,” he wrote on Instagram.
Recalling the film’s depiction of rural Kerala, the Chief Minister praised its portrayal of villages, their people, everyday experiences, affection and romance. He said he wondered why he had waited so long to watch the film after completing it.
Chief Minister Praises the Entire Cast
Satheesan also appreciated the performances of the ensemble cast, observing that even actors appearing in only one or two scenes managed to leave a lasting impression.
He said the film made him laugh heartily at several moments while also moving him to sadness.
“It made me laugh heartily and, at times, moved me to sadness. I enjoyed it from beginning to end. This film is a complete team effort,” he said.
The Chief Minister disclosed that he had called director Girish AD and actor Sangeeth Prathap, who plays Nivin Pauly’s brother in the film, to congratulate them. However, he was unable to reach the film’s lead actors, Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju, by phone.
Among the performers who particularly impressed him was Glikson, whom he mentioned affectionately in his post. “Another person who won my heart, along with them, was Glikson. Poor Glikson!” he wrote, concluding with congratulations to everyone involved in the production.
The film’s cast and crew responded to the Chief Minister’s appreciation in the comments section.
About ‘Bethlehem Kudumba Unit’
Written and directed by Girish AD and Kiran Josey, Bethlehem Kudumba Unit is a romantic comedy centred on Ashley, played by Mamitha Baiju, who returns to Kerala after studying in Ireland and reconnects with her former love, Justin Davis, portrayed by Nivin Pauly.
Their shared love of music brings them closer, but their relationship faces challenges stemming from their age difference and opposition from their families. Their reunion forces them to confront their past and decide whether to give their romance another chance.
The film also features Sangeeth Prathap, Roshan Shanavas, Shyam Mohan, Vinay Forrt, Suresh Krishna, Srinda, Meenakshi Raveendran, Bindu Panicker and Parvathy Ayyappadas in important roles.
Produced by Fahadh Faasil, Dileesh Pothan and Syam Pushkaran under Bhavana Studios and associated banners, the film features cinematography by Ajmal Sabu, editing by Akash Joseph Varghese and music by Vishnu Vijay.
Released during the Onam season, Bethlehem Kudumba Unit has reportedly crossed Rs 325 crore worldwide, marking a major milestone for Malayalam cinema.