The Kerala High Court has refused to cancel criminal proceedings against the producers of the Malayalam hit film ‘Manjummel Boys’, including actor Soubin Shahir, who allegedly promised a man 40% share of the film’s profit.
The Kerala High Court has dismissed a petition to quash criminal proceedings in a cheating case involving the producers of the Malayalam hit film “Manjummel Boys.”
As reported , this ruling allows the ongoing police investigation into the alleged profit dispute to continue, creating new challenges for the filmmakers.
The petition was filed by actor-producer Soubin Shahir along with fellow producers Babu Shahir and Shawn Antony, who financed the film under the Parava Films banner.
A single bench led by Justice VG Arun ruled that the case warranted further investigation. The producers sought to have the proceedings dismissed, but the court decided that the legal process should proceed.
The case was initiated by the Maradu police based on a complaint from Siraj Valiyathara Hameed, a resident of Aroor. Siraj alleged that he was promised a 40% share of the film’s profits in exchange for an investment of Rs.7 crore.
Despite “Manjummel Boys” achieving significant commercial success, he claimed he had not received any share of the profits. The complaint was initially taken up following directions from the Judicial First Class Magistrate Court in Ernakulam.
In response, the producers denied any wrongdoing, contending that Siraj had not made his investment on time, which allegedly disrupted the film’s production schedule.
However, the High Court did not accept this as a valid reason to dismiss the case and allowed the police investigation to continue.
“Manjummel Boys,” which is based on a real-life rescue incident in the Guna Caves, has been widely praised for its emotional storytelling, realistic execution, and impressive editing.
The film has garnered critical acclaim and is noted for its strong repeat watch value, particularly due to its well-crafted rescue sequences.
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Released in 2024, “Manjummel Boys” has become the second highest-grossing Malayalam film of all time. Produced on a budget of Rs.20 crore, it has generated Rs.250 crore globally.
Based on a true story, the film received widespread acclaim and is celebrated as a survival thriller that pays tribute to friendship. Key roles were played by Soubin Shahir, Sreenath Bhasi, Balu Varghese, Ganapathi S. Poduval, Deepak Parambol, and several others.