Saiju Kurup's 'Harivarasanam' to release on 15 January 2027 for Makar Sankranthi
Synopsis
Director Rajesh Nair's devotional Malayalam film 'Harivarasanam', starring Saiju Kurup and built around the Sabarimala pilgrimage, has locked its release for 15 January 2027 — Makar Sankranthi. With dubbing done, Tamil comedian Yogi Babu newly aboard, and a Sabarimala set recreated at Chitranjali Studio, the film is shaping up as one of the more anticipated devotional releases of the festive season.
Key Takeaways
Saiju Kurup 's devotional Malayalam film 'Harivarasanam' will release in theatres on 15 January 2027 , the festival of Makar Sankranthi .
The film is directed by Rajesh Nair (known for 'Salt Mango Tree' and 'Thrissur Pooram') and produced by Vinayaka Ajith .
Tamil comedian Yogi Babu has joined the cast, adding cross-market appeal.
Dubbing was completed in the first week of October 2026 ; shooting had begun in July 2026 at Chitranjali Studio, Thiruvananthapuram .
Music is by Ranjin Raj and cinematography by Sajad Kaaku ; the story is penned by Ampadhy K .
Malayalam actor Saiju Kurup's devotional film 'Harivarasanam', directed by Rajesh Nair, is set to release in theatres on 15 January 2027, coinciding with the festival of Makar Sankranthi. Production house Panorama Studios made the announcement on Tuesday, 27 October 2026, describing the film as 'an emotional journey of faith.'
Release Announcement and Festive Timing
Panorama Studios took to its Instagram page to share the update, writing: 'An Emotional Journey of Faith! Witness HARIVARASANAM in theatres this MAKAR SANKRANTHI!' The Makar Sankranthi window has traditionally been a favoured slot for devotional and family-oriented films in the Malayalam film industry, and the choice of date signals the makers' confidence in the project's mass appeal.
Production Journey So Far
The film went on floors in the first week of July 2026 with a pooja ceremony at the Chitranjali Studio in Thiruvananthapuram, where a grand set replicating the iconic Sabarimala temple — including its celebrated 18 steps — was erected. By August 2026, the unit had completed its 30th day of shooting, with director Rajesh Nair sharing behind-the-scenes images of devotees ascending the recreated steps. Dubbing for the film was confirmed completed in the first week of October 2026.
Cast, Crew and New Addition
A significant boost to the film's buzz came with Tamil comedian Yogi Babu joining the cast. Actor Saiju Kurup welcomed him with a post on Instagram, saying: '#Harivarasanam, the divine tale continues. Happy to welcome onboard, Shri Yogi Babu. Get ready for an intense blend of emotion, devotion, and powerful storytelling.' The film is produced by Vinayaka Ajith under Ajith Vinayaka Films. The story has been written by Ampadhy K, with cinematography by Sajad Kaaku, music by Ranjin Raj, editing by Ajiesh Edamon, and costumes designed by Stephy Zaviour. Rakhil handles production design and Sasi Poduval oversees production control.
About the Director
Director Rajesh Nair is best known for helming films such as 'Salt Mango Tree' and 'Thrissur Pooram'. 'Harivarasanam' marks his entry into the devotional genre, with the Sabarimala pilgrimage serving as the film's spiritual and narrative backdrop — a subject that carries deep cultural resonance across Kerala and among the Malayalam diaspora.
What to Watch
With dubbing wrapped and the release date locked, the next milestones for the production are likely to be a trailer launch and a wider promotional campaign in the run-up to Makar Sankranthi 2027. Given Yogi Babu's strong following in Tamil Nadu, the film could also eye a simultaneous Tamil release, though no official announcement has been made on that front.
Point of View
When devotional sentiment peaks across Kerala. Yogi Babu's casting is a calculated cross-market play that could extend the film's reach into Tamil Nadu without a full-scale bilingual production. The real question is whether the trailer campaign can capitalise on this timing window before the slot gets crowded. Rajesh Nair's track record with niche-but-resonant subjects makes this one of the more credible bets in the devotional genre.
NationPress
27 Oct 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When is 'Harivarasanam' releasing in theatres?
'Harivarasanam' is set to release in theatres on 15 January 2027, coinciding with the festival of Makar Sankranthi. Production house Panorama Studios confirmed the date on 27 October 2026.
Who is the lead actor in 'Harivarasanam'?
Malayalam actor Saiju Kurup plays the lead in 'Harivarasanam'. The film is directed by Rajesh Nair and produced by Vinayaka Ajith under Ajith Vinayaka Films.
What is 'Harivarasanam' about?
'Harivarasanam' is a devotional Malayalam film set against the backdrop of the Sabarimala pilgrimage, including the iconic 18 steps of the temple. The story is written by Ampadhy K and centres on faith and devotion.
Why has Yogi Babu joining 'Harivarasanam' generated buzz?
Tamil comedian Yogi Babu's addition to the cast has broadened the film's cross-market appeal, particularly in Tamil Nadu. Saiju Kurup welcomed him on Instagram, describing the film as 'an intense blend of emotion, devotion, and powerful storytelling.'
Where was 'Harivarasanam' shot?
The film began shooting in July 2026 at Chitranjali Studio in Thiruvananthapuram, where a grand set replicating the Sabarimala temple — including the famous 18 steps — was constructed for the production.
