Saiju Kurup starts dubbing for devotional Malayalam film 'Harivarasanam'
Synopsis
Malayalam actor Saiju Kurup has begun dubbing for 'Harivarasanam', a devotional film set against the Sabarimala pilgrimage backdrop. With Tamil comedian Yogi Babu now on board and a grand replica of the temple's 18 steps built at Chitranjali Studio, this cross-industry devotional production is shaping up as one of the more ambitious Malayalam releases in the pipeline.
Key Takeaways
Saiju Kurup commenced dubbing for 'Harivarasanam' on 5 October , marking a key post-production milestone.
The film is directed by Rajesh Nair (known for 'Salt Mango Tree' and 'Thrissur Pooram' ) and produced by Vinayaka Ajith .
Shooting began in July at Chitranjali Studio, Thiruvananthapuram , with a set replicating the Sabarimala temple .
Tamil comedian Yogi Babu has joined the cast, broadening the film's cross-industry appeal.
Music is composed by Ranjin Raj ; cinematography by Sajad Kaaku ; story by Ampadhy K .
Malayalam actor Saiju Kurup has commenced dubbing for the upcoming devotional Malayalam film 'Harivarasanam', directed by Rajesh Nair. The update, shared on 5 October, signals that the production is steadily advancing toward its release.
Dubbing Begins
Saiju Kurup announced the milestone through his Instagram page, writing: '#harivarasanam dubbing started. Dialogues punch time.' The post tagged the production house Ajith Vinayaka Films, director Rajesh Mohanan, and story writer Ampadhy K, confirming key creative collaborators remain actively involved at this stage.
Production Journey So Far
The film had gone on floors in early July with a pooja ceremony held at the Chitranjali Studio in Thiruvananthapuram, where a grand set replicating the iconic Sabarimala temple — including its celebrated 18 steps — was erected. By August, director Rajesh Nair had shared a behind-the-scenes update confirming the shoot had crossed its 30th day, accompanied by a picture showing cinematographer Sajad Kaaku framing actors dressed as devotees preparing to climb the replica steps.
Yogi Babu's Entry Adds to the Buzz
Excitement around the project received an additional boost when Tamil comedian Yogi Babu was confirmed as part of the cast. Saiju Kurup welcomed him with a post that read: '#Harivarasanam, the divine tale continues. Happy to welcome onboard, Shri Yogi Babu. Get ready for an intense blend of emotion, devotion, and powerful storytelling.' Yogi Babu's cross-industry appeal is expected to widen the film's audience reach beyond Kerala.
The Team Behind the Film
Produced by Vinayaka Ajith, 'Harivarasanam' is helmed by Rajesh Nair, best known for directing 'Salt Mango Tree' and 'Thrissur Pooram'. The story has been written by Ampadhy K, with production design by R Jayachandran. Music for the film is composed by Ranjin Raj, while editing is handled by Ajiesh Edamon. Costumes are designed by Stephy Zaviour, production design by Rakhil, and production control by Sasi Poduval.
What to Expect Next
With dubbing now underway, the post-production phase of 'Harivarasanam' is picking up pace. Given its Sabarimala backdrop and the blend of devotional storytelling with notable cast names, the film is expected to draw significant attention from Malayalam cinema audiences ahead of its release.
Point of View
Culturally resonant storytelling gives the project credibility beyond its devotional theme. The inclusion of Yogi Babu is a calculated cross-market move that could extend the film's reach into Tamil-speaking audiences. Whether the Sabarimala setting translates into genuine emotional depth or becomes a backdrop for spectacle will be the film's defining creative challenge.
NationPress
5 Oct 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Harivarasanam' and who stars in it?
'Harivarasanam' is an upcoming devotional Malayalam film directed by Rajesh Nair, with Saiju Kurup in the lead role. The film is set against the backdrop of the Sabarimala pilgrimage and also features Tamil comedian Yogi Babu in a notable role.
Where was 'Harivarasanam' filmed?
The film commenced shooting in July at Chitranjali Studio in Thiruvananthapuram, where a grand set replicating the Sabarimala temple — including its famous 18 steps — was constructed for the production.
Who is directing 'Harivarasanam'?
The film is directed by Rajesh Nair, who is best known for his earlier Malayalam films 'Salt Mango Tree' and 'Thrissur Pooram'. It is produced by Vinayaka Ajith under the banner Ajith Vinayaka Films.
What stage is 'Harivarasanam' at currently?
As of 5 October, the film has entered its dubbing phase, with lead actor Saiju Kurup confirming the start of dialogue recording. The production had completed over 30 days of principal photography by August.
Who is part of the technical crew of 'Harivarasanam'?
The film's music is composed by Ranjin Raj, cinematography is handled by Sajad Kaaku, and editing is by Ajiesh Edamon. The story is written by Ampadhy K, with costumes by Stephy Zaviour and production design by R Jayachandran and Rakhil.
