Mohanlal's Drishyam 3 and Nivin Pauly's Pratichaya set for box office clash for the third time

Mohanlal's Drishyam 3 and Nivin Pauly's Pratichaya set for box office clash for the third timeMohanlal's Drishyam 3 and Nivin Pauly's Pratichaya set for box office clash for the third time

• Drishyam 3 and Prathichaya to clash in 2026
• Prathichaya releases March 26, Drishyam 3 follows on April 2
• Both films feature star casts and intense, suspenseful narratives

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The Malayalam film industry is gearing up for a major box office face-off as Mohanlal and Nivin Pauly prepare to clash once again, this time with Drishyam 3 and Prathichaya. With both films locking close release dates, the excitement among audiences is already building.

Nivin Pauly’s Prathichaya is scheduled to hit theatres on March 26, 2026, while Mohanlal’s Drishyam 3 will arrive just a week later on April 2. The narrow gap between the two releases has set the stage for an intense theatrical competition, marking the third time the two actors will go head-to-head at the box office.

This isn’t the first clash between the stars. Back in 2019, Mohanlal’s Ittymaani: Made in China released alongside Nivin Pauly’s Love Action Drama during the Onam season. More recently, the Christmas 2025 window also saw their films competing for audience attention. Despite the rivalry at the box office, the two actors share a warm professional relationship and have even appeared together in Kayamkulam Kochunni, which was well received by audiences.

Prathichaya, backed by Sree Gokulam Movies and RD Illuminations LLP, is positioned as a gripping political thriller. Directed by B Unnikrishnan, the film marks his first collaboration with Nivin Pauly.

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Known for handling intense narratives, Unnikrishnan brings his signature style to this ambitious project, which is said to be mounted on a large scale. The trailer hints at a story rooted in political conflict, power dynamics, and moral dilemmas, with Nivin delivering a compelling voice-over that questions the true meaning of success. The film also features Sharaf U Dheen and veteran actor Balachandra Menon in key roles.

On the other hand, Drishyam 3 carries massive expectations as the third installment of one of Indian cinema’s most successful thriller franchises. Directed by Jeethu Joseph, the film continues the story of Georgekutty, a character that has become iconic over the years. Mohanlal returns to reprise the role, along with key cast members including Meena, Asha Sharath, Siddique, Murali Gopy, and Kalabhavan Shajohn.

Interestingly, the makers of Drishyam 3 are reportedly opting for a minimal promotional strategy, choosing to maintain secrecy around the plot and preserve the suspense that defines the franchise. Jeethu Joseph has earlier emphasized that the series has always evolved organically, focusing on the natural progression of Georgekutty’s life rather than forcing dramatic escalations.

With two strong films from popular stars releasing within days of each other, the Malayalam box office is set for a thrilling showdown. Whether audiences lean towards the politically charged narrative of Prathichaya or the suspense-driven world of Drishyam 3, one thing is certain — this clash will be closely watched and widely discussed.