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The Hindu
30-04-2025
- The Hindu
Arrest of two directors with ‘hybrid ganja': excise serves notice on director Sameer Thahir
The excise officials have served a notice directing cinematographer-turned-director Sameer Thahir to appear before the agency in connection with the incident in which Malayalam movie directors Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamsa were nabbed with 1.5 g of suspected hybrid ganja during a pre-dawn raid on Sunday. They were arrested from an apartment near Marine Drive that belonged to Mr. Thahir. Reportedly, he has been asked to appear within a week. Another person, Shalif Muhammad, was also arrested along with the directors. Among other things, the excise may ask Mr. Thahir whether he was aware of and had given consent to the use of ganja in his apartment, an offence which may attract the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act Section 25A (punishment for using property for illegal drug activities). The apartment is purportedly being used for film-related discussions and work. According to excise officials, the director duo was about to use ganja when they were nabbed from the apartment. Shalif had reportedly bought the contraband from a supplier in Kerala. While the excise has details about the supplier, including his mobile phone number, he could not be tracked yet. More details about the source of the drug could be known only after apprehending him, said excise sources. The accused may be further summoned if the investigation officer gets any fresh leads warranting it. Mr. Rahman is the director of movies Alappuzha Gymkhana, Thallumala and Unda, while Mr. Hamsa directed Thamaasha and Bheemante Vazhi. Since the quantity in their possession was small, the accused were released on bail. They reportedly claimed that they converged at the apartment to discuss a movie. According to excise sources, the duo had escaped by a whisker in a similar raid at the apartment in March. Since then, the FEFKA Directors' Union has decided to suspend the two directors. The raid was carried out on specific intelligence input, complete with the apartment details.
Gulf News
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf News
Who is Khalid Rahman? The Malayalam director making headlines amid drug scandal in Kerala
Khalid Rahman, the acclaimed Malayalam filmmaker behind hits such as Thallumaala and Alappuzha Gymkhana, was arrested on April 27, 2025, in Kochi after being found in possession of 1.63 grams of hybrid cannabis. According to reports, he was arrested along with fellow director Ashraf Hamza and their associate Shalif Mohammed during a pre-dawn raid conducted by the Excise Department at a flat reportedly rented by cinematographer Sameer Thahir. The arrests are part of a broader crackdown on drug use within the Malayalam film industry, following a spate of high-profile cases. While Rahman and Hamza were released on station bail due to the small quantity of cannabis seized, the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) has suspended both directors from the Directors' Union pending further investigation. The case has reignited debates around the prevalence of substance abuse among celebrities and highlighted the growing demand for stricter enforcement of drug laws in the entertainment industry. But who's Khalid Rahman? Known for his innovative storytelling and distinct visual style, Rahman made his directorial debut with Anuraga Karikkin Vellam (2016), a film that was both a commercial and critical success. Over the years, he has established himself as one of the most dynamic young filmmakers in Malayalam cinema, with a career marked by diverse projects like Unda (2019), Love (2020), and the vibrant, action-packed Thallumaala (2022). Born into a family deeply rooted in the film industry, Khalid's creative journey seemed almost destined. He is the son of the late actor V.P. Khalid and the brother of noted cinematographers Shyju Khalid and Jimshi Khalid. This strong artistic background significantly shaped his early exposure to cinema and storytelling. Khalid began his career behind the scenes as an assistant director, contributing to acclaimed films such as Ustad Hotel (2012), North 24 Kaatham (2013), and Sapthamashree Thaskaraha (2014). Alongside assisting, he also made brief cameo appearances in films like Parava (2017) and Mayaanadhi (2017), showcasing his versatility in front of the camera. His directorial debut, Anuraga Karikkin Vellam, was praised for its fresh narrative style and relatable characters, earning him the Vanitha Film Award for Best Debutant Director in 2017. Khalid's second directorial venture, Unda, starring Mammootty, addressed the challenges faced by police officers deployed in Maoist-affected regions, earning critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal and nuanced storytelling. In 2020, during the COVID-19 lockdown, Khalid directed Love, an experimental psychological thriller filmed entirely indoors. Released on Netflix, the film stood out for its intense performances and tight narrative, further establishing his reputation as a bold and adaptive filmmaker. Rahman's Thallumaala (2022) marked a turning point in his career. With its vibrant, non-linear storytelling and stylized action sequences, the film was a commercial blockbuster. It broke away from Malayalam cinema's traditional realism and resonated strongly with younger audiences, earning him widespread acclaim. In 2025, Khalid delivered another surprise success with Alappuzha Gymkhana. Initially flying under the radar, the film grew steadily through strong word-of-mouth and became one of the sleeper hits of the year. Critics praised its grounded storytelling, emotional depth, and Khalid's signature flair for blending humor and drama seamlessly. Apart from directing, Khalid has also appeared in cameo roles in films like Sulaikha Manzil (2023) and Manjummel Boys (2024), where he played the character Prasad. He even showcased his musical talent as a playback singer for the popular track "Thoottikkanoda Patha" in Thallumaala. Despite recent controversies, including his name surfacing in a drug-related case, Khalid Rahman's contributions to Malayalam cinema remain significant. His ability to evolve, experiment, and consistently push creative boundaries has made him one of the most exciting filmmakers of his generation. Overview of the incident Arrest of Prominent Directors: Malayalam film directors Khalid Rahman (known for Thallumaala, Alappuzha Gymkhana) and Ashraf Hamza (known for Thamaasha, Bheemante Vazhi) were arrested for possession of hybrid drugs. Here's the key highlights of the Malayalam film directors' arrest for drug possession: April 1, 2025: Excise officials arrest Thasleema Sulthana and K Feroze for allegedly selling hybrid drugs. Sulthana's husband, Sultan Akbar Ali, is later arrested. Around April 1 (Ongoing Investigation): The probe team suspects Thasleema Sulthana supplied drugs to actors Shine Tom Chacko and Sreenath Bhasi. April 21 : Actor Shine Tom Chacko is arrested for alleged drug use in connection with a narcotics raid at a Kochi hotel. He is released on station bail the same day after interrogation. April 25: Actor Sreenath Bhasi approaches the Kerala High Court seeking anticipatory bail in the drugs case but withdraws his petition on the same day. Recent (Prior to April 27): The Excise Department issues notices to actors Shine Tom Chacko and Sreenath Bhasi, directing them to appear for questioning on April 28. Early Morning, Sunday, April 27 (approximately 2:00 am local time): Excise Department conducts a raid at a flat near the Gosree Bridge in Kochi. The flat reportedly belongs to cinematographer Sameer Thahir. April 27: Directors Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza, along with Shalif Mohammed, are arrested during the Kochi flat raid for possession of 1.6 grams of hybrid ganja.
The Hindu
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
‘Hybrid ganja' found in possession of film directors sourced from supplier in Kerala, say Excise officials
The suspected hybrid ganja with which two prominent Malayalam movie directors were nabbed from a flat in Kochi recently was reportedly sourced from a supplier in Kerala, according to Excise officials. Film directors Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamsa were arrested with 1.50 grams of suspected hybrid ganja when they allegedly were just about to use it during a pre-dawn raid on Sunday (April 27, 2025). Another person, Shalif Muhammad, was also arrested from the apartment that reportedly belonged to director-cum-cinematographer Sameer Thahir. 'It was Shalif who reportedly bought the contraband from a supplier. We have details about the supplier and are trying to track him down. His mobile phone remains switched off. More details about the source of the drug could be known only on his detention,' said Excise sources. Excise officials are set to issue a notice to Mr. Thahir shortly. The accused may be further summoned if the investigation officer gets any fresh leads warranting it. Mr. Rahman is the director of movies Alappuzha Gymkhana, Thallumala and Unda, while Mr. Hamsa directed Thamaasha and Bheemante Vazhi. Since the quantity in their possession was small, the accused were released on bail. They reportedly claimed that they converged at the apartment to discuss a movie. According to Excise sources, the duo had escaped by a whisker in a similar raid at the apartment in March. Since then, the FEFKA Directors' Union has decided to suspend the two directors. The raid was carried out on specific intelligence input, complete with the apartment details. It came at a time when the debate about the influence of drugs in the film industry has turned louder. Actors Shine Tom Chacko and Sreenath Bhasi have appeared before excise officials in Alapuzha on Monday in connection with the seizure of 3 kg of suspected hybrid ganja from a couple in a resort in Omanapuzha in Alapuzha. Allegedly, Excise officials found mobile phone call records and WhatsApp chats linking the woman to the actors. Mr. Chacko was also involved in another bizarre incident in which he fled a hotel in Kaloor during a raid by the Kochi city police' District Anti-Narcotics Special Action Force on April 16. Later, the Ernakulam Town North police summoned him and booked him under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act.
Gulf News
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf News
Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza drug scandal: Is Malayalam cinema's golden phase under threat?
Dubai: The Malayalam film industry has been riding a glorious, golden phase — with films boldly tackling hard-hitting subjects, winning national acclaim, and resonating with audiences far beyond Kerala. Movies addressing alcoholism, patriarchy, casteism, gender identity, and social injustice have cemented Malayalam cinema's reputation as one of India's most fearless and creatively daring industries. But today, a dark cloud of uncertainty and suspicion looms large. In a shocking turn of events, acclaimed filmmakers Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza — associated with celebrated films such as Alappuzha Gymkyan and Unda — have reportedly been caught consuming a negligible amount of cannabis at a flat in Kochi. Their names now join a growing list that includes fresh crop of actors such as Shine Tom Chacko and Sreenath Bhasi, previously accused of using psychedelic drugs. Once upon a time, the likes of Prem Nazir, Madhu, Mammootty, and Mohanlal set the gold standard for professionalism. While whispers of diva behavior or eccentricities existed, scandals involving intoxication or substance abuse were virtually unheard of. The industry projected discipline and dignity, both on and off screen. Today, even as the current drug controversy unfolds, disturbing rumours are circulating — suggesting that some high-end actors from the younger generation allegedly rely on cannabis or other substances to perform on sets or to handle the pressures of stardom. So far, no major names have been officially implicated, and few are willing to openly address this growing suspicion. But the silence is deafening. Malayalam cinema has historically shown the courage to confront uncomfortable truths. Mohanlal's movie Spirit tackled Kerala's rampant alcoholism problem without judgment, while Mammootty's Kaathal - The Core sensitively explored gender identity within a conservative society. Yet, despite growing reports of drug abuse across Kerala, the issue of addiction remains glaringly absent from Malayalam storytelling. Why the reluctance to explore a reality that is no longer at the fringes but steadily moving to the center? As Malayalam cinema basks in global recognition, it must also confront the shadows gathering within. The industry's hard-earned credibility is now at risk. Will it continue to look away — or find the courage to address its uncomfortable new reality before it's too late?
Gulf Today
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Two Malayalam film directors detained with hybrid cannabis
After actor Shine Tom Chacko, who is facing charges of using drugs on the sets, the Excise officials arrested three, including Malayalam film directors Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza, and seized 1.63 gm of hybrid cannabis (ganja) from a flat here in the wee hours of Sunday. They were released on station bail around 5.30am. Shalif Mohammad, a friend of the directors, was also arrested from the flat. The Excise sleuths raided the flat around 2am on Sunday. According to the Excise team, cinematographer Sameer Thahir had rented the flat. "We took the three into custody from a flat in Kochi and seized the hybrid ganja. A case is registered against them under sections 20(b) (II) A and 29 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985,' said the official at the Excise squad office in Ernakulam. Excise inspector KP Pramod told media persons that the trio nabbed from the flat are regular drug users. The directors and their friend had reached the flat for discussions related to a movie, he said. "We nabbed them from flat 506 of Purva Grandbay in Kochi. When we raided the flat, they were preparing to consume the ganja. After interrogating them, we confirmed that the three persons had been using ganja for a long time,' said the official. He added that the trio were released on station bail as only 1.5 gm of ganja was seized from them. "However, a detailed probe will be conducted to identify the source of the hybrid ganja," he said. Khalid Rahman is the director of several hit films such as Anuraga Karikkinvellam, Unda, and Thallumala. His latest movie Alappuzha Gymkhana is currently running in packed theatres. Ashraf Hamza is known for movies Thamaasha, Sulaikha Manzil and Bheemante Vazhi. With the arrest of the directors, the alleged drug abuse in the Malayalam film industry is back in the spotlight. Shine Tom Chacko hogged the headlines after a 'cinematic escape' from a hotel raided by DANSAF (District Anti-Narcotic Special Action Force) team. He was later released on station bail after interrogation and medical examination. According to official sources, the Excise Department will summon cinematographer-director Sameer Thahir for questioning in connection with the arrest of movie directors on Sunday. A notice will be served to Thahir to appear for interrogation, as giving a space for drug use is also an offence under the NDPS Act, Excise Deputy Commissioner TM Maju said. "We need to interrogate the flat owner in detail. We don't know whether the three accused got access to the flat after convincing him that they are going to have a film discussion,' he said. The official confirmed that 1.63 grams of hybrid ganja, a bong, a device used for inhaling ganja, and a grinder were recovered from the flat. A detailed probe will be conducted to identify the source of the ganja and the devices, he said. "We don't know whether they are drug addicts or not. They only confessed to us that they had used ganja,' said Maju. The excise officials conducted the raid as part of the second phase of Operation Clean State, a crackdown on drugs. "We have observed that hybrid ganja is a new trend among the drug users. We raided the flat based on a tip-off. Initially, they only stated that they work in the film industry. Further interrogation revealed that two of them are famous directors. Shalif Mohammad brought ganja to the directors,' said the official. In the wake of the latest development, the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) Directors' Union suspended filmmakers, Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza from the body. In a statement, the union president Renji Panickar and general secretary GS Vijayan said further steps would be initiated after examining the progress of the ongoing investigation.
