Malayalam film Bethlehem Kudumba Unit has become one of the biggest success stories of 2026. The romantic drama, which released during Onam last month, has crossed ₹231 crore worldwide and continues to draw audiences to theatres. The film is now releasing in Tamil and Telugu, expanding its reach beyond Kerala. Co-writer Kiran Josey recently spoke about the film’s reception, the comparisons with Ohm Shanti Oshana, and his experience working with Nivin Pauly.
Writer Reacts to Ohm Shanti Oshana Comparisons
Many viewers have pointed out similarities between Bethlehem Kudumba Unit and the 2014 hit Ohm Shanti Oshana. Both films feature Nivin Pauly in the lead role and deal with an age-gap romance. In Ohm Shanti Oshana, Nivin starred opposite Nazriya Nazim as the older love interest. In Bethlehem Kudumba Unit, his character Justin shares a similar dynamic with Mamitha Baiju’s character Ashley.
When asked about these comparisons, Kiran Josey gave a straightforward response. He said the only real similarities are the presence of Nivin Pauly and the age-gap theme. The writer did not seem bothered by the comparisons and focused instead on what makes their film unique.
The film follows Ashley, a college student who moves to a new neighbourhood with her family. She develops a connection with Justin, her older neighbour who is about 12-13 years older than her. The story explores their growing bond against the backdrop of a close-knit community.
Nivin Pauly Was Already On Board When Writer Joined
Kiran Josey shared an interesting detail about how Nivin Pauly came to be part of the project. The writer revealed that the actor was already attached to the film even before he joined the writing team.
Director Girish AD had the idea for Bethlehem Kudumba Unit long before his previous films. The story concept was with him even before Thanneer Mathan Dinangal. He had already written the character of Justin around that time and had Nivin Pauly in mind as one of the choices.
When Kiran Josey came on board for the scripting stage, Nivin Pauly was already confirmed for the role. The writer said that looking at the finished film, it is clear that Nivin Pauly was the perfect choice for that character.
Kiran Josey also made it clear that he is a big fan of the actor. He described Nivin as a very charming person who can show emotions on screen very nicely. The writer added that he would love to write another character for him in the future.
The Red Ford Ikon Became a Character on Its Own
One of the most talked-about elements of Bethlehem Kudumba Unit is the red Ford Ikon owned by Justin. Some of the film’s best scenes take place inside this car. It is where Justin gets a proposal and later has a moment of vulnerability. The car becomes his safe space away from others.
Kiran Josey revealed that the team did not plan for the car to become such an important part of the story. He said they did not include it intentionally. The car bits came very organically during the making of the film.
The writer explained that they knew Justin had an old car, but they did not think of it as a prominent element during the script stage. It was only after the release, when many writers and audiences started discussing the film, that they noticed the car had become one of the characters.
Film’s Success and Expanding Reach
Bethlehem Kudumba Unit has performed exceptionally well at the box office. The film collected ₹4.90 crore on its opening day, followed by ₹7.15 crore on day two and ₹8.80 crore on day three. It has now grossed approximately ₹231.25 crore worldwide. The India gross stands at ₹119.25 crore, while overseas earnings are ₹112 crore.
The film’s India net collection has crossed ₹102 crore. It has become only the fourth Malayalam film to cross ₹100 crore in Kerala.
The Tamil and Telugu dubbed versions of the film hit theatres on September 4. The Tamil release has opened in more than 200 screens across Tamil Nadu. Nivin Pauly announced this on social media, writing, “200+ Screens Across Tamil Nadu! Now, Let the Celebration Begin!”.
The Telugu version has also generated significant interest, with Mythri Movie Distributors adding early morning shows in Hyderabad.
Writer Shares His Reaction to Film’s Reception
Kiran Josey expressed his happiness about the film’s positive response. He said they are really happy with how audiences and critics have received the film.
The writer shared that he had not seen the complete movie before its release. He only watched the second half during the first day, first show. He had seen bits during the first cut but watched the full film only on release day.
He was really happy to see how it came out. He praised the music, the structure, and how the performances really elevated the movie. After the first day, many messages came in pointing out what people found most beautiful in the film. He said he is happy and grateful for the response.
About the Film’s Writing and Humour
Kiran Josey previously co-wrote Premalu with director Girish AD. The duo has developed a writing style that works well for family audiences.
The writer explained that they never sat down thinking every dialogue had to have a joke. They simply followed the characters and the situations, and the humour came out of that naturally. This approach worked for both Premalu and Bethlehem Kudumba Unit.
The supporting cast has become one of the film’s strongest elements. Characters like Joel, played by Sangeeth Prathap, and Glixon, played by Roshan Shanavas, have become audience favourites.
Kiran Josey revealed that Glixon was not part of the story when Girish AD first narrated it. The character was added as they developed the supporting roles.
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What Viewers Are Saying
Social media reactions to Bethlehem Kudumba Unit have been largely positive. One user called it a “perfect Onam movie to enjoy with your family and friends”. Another said the film is a “sureshot Onam winner”.
Viewers have appreciated the comedy, writing, and performances. The chemistry between Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju has also received praise.
The film is produced by Fahadh Faasil, Dileesh Pothan, and Syam Pushkaran under the Bhavana Studios banner. The music is composed by Vishnu Vijay, with cinematography by Ajmal Sabu.
The film is expected to stream on JioHotstar after its theatrical run ends. The streaming rights have reportedly been acquired by the platform, though an official premiere date has not been announced yet.
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