Is Mohanlal's ‘Thudarum' based on a true story? Here's what we know
Anyone who has watched Mohanlal and Tharun Moorthy's recent crime drama movie 'Thudarum' may doubt whether it's based on the
Kevin murder case
, as the story deals with honor killing.
Based on a true story?
After the critically acclaimed 'Operation Java' and 'Saudi Vellakka,' director Tharun Moorthy returns with 'Thudarum,' a gripping revenge drama that stars Mohanlal, Shobana, and newcomer Prakash Varma.
The film, which has now completed 25 successful days in theaters, has sparked discussion due to its premise — a revenge saga rooted in honor killing. This has led to speculation that Thudarum is inspired by the real-life 2018 Kevin murder case from Kerala.
Tharun Moorthy responds
However, director Tharun Moorthy has firmly clarified that 'Thudarum' is not based on any individual's life, including Kevin's. 'It is not based on anyone's personal life.'
Thudarum - Official Teaser
The 'Operation Java' director told OTTplay that they have referred to the documentation of honor killings that happened in Kerala and have not tried to recreate real incidents. According to Tharun Moorthy, they tried to understand the emotional arcs and mental conflicts involved in such honor killings. He emphasized that 'Thudarum' is entirely fictional and was only shaped by generic reference material to ensure authenticity in portraying the emotional weight of such a tragedy.
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What is the Kevin murder case?
For context, Kevin, a 24-year-old Dalit Christian, was abducted and murdered by the family of his upper-caste wife in Kottayam, Kerala, in 2018. The incident, widely condemned and legally recognized as an honor killing, shook the conscience of the state.
About 'Thudarum'
In Thudarum, Mohanlal plays 'Benz' Shanmugham, a man seeking justice after his stepson is killed by a high-ranking police officer named George Sir (played by Prakash Varma) in a chilling act of honor-based violence.
Shobana plays the mother, caught between grief and resilience.
Strong box office performance
Thudarum has now grossed Rs 114.80 crore across all languages. As per the Sacnilk website, on day 25 (May 19, 2025), it pulled in Rs 1.50 crore in India. The film had a solid start, collecting Rs 5.25 crore on its opening day and Rs 51.4 crore in its first week alone — most of it from the original Malayalam version.
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