Lights, camera, legacy—the Malayalam film industry is about to witness a star-studded saga like never before! The legendary Mohanlal is stepping into a thrilling new role as Mambarakkal Ahmed Ali, the formidable grandfather of Prithviraj Sukumaran's character Aamir Ali, in the upcoming two-part action epic *Khalifa – The Bloodline*. This announcement has sent shockwaves through cinema circles, promising an intense, larger-than-life narrative steeped in a blend of family legacy, underworld power struggles, and ruthless smuggling operations[2][3]. Set for release in Onam 2026, *Khalifa* unfolds in two chapters: Part 1, *The Intro*, reveals the bloody and powerful origins of the Mambarakkal family empire through Mohanlal's character, whose influence shapes the entire storyline. The sequel, *His Reign*, will delve deeper into this violent legacy, immersing audiences in a gritty saga of vengeance and gold smuggling. The filmmakers have cleverly teased the character with a striking poster featuring symbolic elements like a bloodstained hand holding a cigar placed beside gold bars and a revolver—setting a dark, intense tone befitting the film's title tagline, "Before gold… there was blood"[2]. Mohanlal's role as the powerful mafia don is pivotal and is said to have a legacy that makes even political icons cower, as hinted by the phrase "the man who once made Mrs. Gandhi kneel"[1]. This project marks the fourth collaboration between Mohanlal and Prithviraj, who have previously worked together in hits like *Lucifer* and *Bro Daddy*. Directed by Vysakh, known for blockbusters such as *Pulimurugan*, the film combines high-octane action with a gripping narrative and top-tier technical expertise, including cinematographer Jomon T. John and music director Jakes Bejoy[1][3]. For fans of Malayalam cinema craving a mix of star power, compelling storylines, and explosive action, *Khalifa* promises to be nothing short of spectacular. Are you ready to dive into this bloodline of crime and power? What are your thoughts on Mohanlal's casting as the menacing Mambarakkal Ahmed Ali and the film's intriguing premise? Share your views in the comments below, and don't forget to spread the word by sharing this post with fellow cinephiles!
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Citations
1.https://english.mathrubhumi.com/movies-music/news/khalifa-movie-mohanlal-confirmed-as-mambarakkal-ahmed-ali-prithviraj-sukumaran-grandfather-ys3yuzsm
2.https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/khalifa-mohanlal-confirmed-as-prithviraj-sukumarans-grandfather-mambarakkal-ahmed-ali-before-gold-there-was-blood/articleshow/125812702.cms
3.https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2025/Dec/06/mohanlal-joins-prithviraj-in-khalifa-film-to-be-released-in-two-parts
4.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/L2:_Empuraan
5.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVISpX7CgIg
6.https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10505918/
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