After a subdued run in theatres, the Malayalam social drama Abhyanthara Kuttavali is poised for a significant second life, with its digital premiere scheduled for October 17, 2025. The film, which tackles the delicate and often one-sided narrative of false domestic violence and dowry allegations from a male perspective, will be available for streaming on ZEE5 and OTTplay Premium. This OTT release is expected to bring the film’s provocative subject matter to a much wider, national audience, allowing it to spark the conversations it initially intended to, but on a grander scale.
Abhyanthara Kuttavali tells the story of Sahadevan, a happily married man portrayed by Asif Ali, whose life is upended when his wife files false legal cases of domestic harassment and dowry abuse against him. The narrative follows his arduous struggle against a legal system and a society rife with inherent biases. Directed by debutant Sethunath Padmakumar, the film boldly explores the emotional and legal turmoil faced by men in such situations, a perspective rarely highlighted in mainstream Indian cinema.
The film’s theatrical release was notably quiet, but it managed to generate considerable discussion and controversy for its unwavering focus on the male protagonist’s point of view. While some critics pointed to its one-sided approach, it also found praise from a segment of the audience for daring to shed light on what they perceive as a neglected aspect of gender dynamics. Featuring a strong supporting cast including Thulasi, Jagadish, and Harisree Ashokan, the movie’s journey is a testament to how certain stories can find their true calling and viewership in the digital space.
The arrival of Abhyanthara Kuttavali on ZEE5 and OTTplay Premium this October places it directly into the heart of India’s ongoing discourse on legal justice and gender equality. Its OTT debut is more than just a platform shift; it is an opportunity for the film to transcend its initial limited reach and ignite a broader, more inclusive debate. For viewers interested in thought-provoking cinema that challenges conventional narratives, Abhyanthara Kuttavali is set to be one of the most talked-about releases of the season.