The atmosphere buzzes with eager anticipation as acclaimed filmmaker Vipin Das gears up for the release of his latest venture, “Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil” set to hit theaters on May 16. This upcoming feature promises to deliver a plethora of laughs and heartwarming moments, catering to audiences of all ages as it dives into the festivities surrounding an Indian wedding.
In a recent telephone interview, Vipin Das, the celebrated director best known for his award-winning work, Mudhugauv (2016), reveals a creative shift with this new movie. Unlike his previous serious-themed ventures like Antakshari (2022) and Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey (JJJJH) (2022), “Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil” is a breezy foray into the comedic genre and casts the popular actors Prithviraj and Basil Joseph in pivotal roles.
Vipin hails from Thiruvananthapuram and has carved a niche for himself in the industry as a director with a flair for tackling diverse themes. “It’s a departure from what I have done so far. While Antakshari and JJJJH were intense, dealing with weighty subjects, I found it thrilling to dive into this festive comic genre that’s filled with songs, dance, and action,” he shared, emphasizing his desire to explore various cinematic forms and storytelling approaches to avoid creative stagnation.
JJJJH had set the benchmark high with its unconventional portrayal of domestic abuse, becoming a blockbuster success. Vipin clarifies that “Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil” steers clear of the stark gender politics and societal observations that marked his previous work. This new project springs from the vision of writer Deepu Pradeep and is brought to life under Vipin’s direction.
Prithviraj Productions proudly stands behind the movie’s production, revealing an ensemble cast that includes Anaswara Rajan, Nikhila Vimal, Mamitha Baiju, Rekha Jagadish, Aju Varghese, and Yogi Babu. Vipin speaks fondly of the dynamic between Prithviraj and Basil, whose onscreen fraternity amplifies the humor. “They play brothers-in-law and friends, and their camaraderie really bolsters the film’s charm,” he discloses, highlighting the significance of every character, regardless of their screen time, within the narrative’s wedding theme.
The film’s central plot involves a comical mishap at a Guruvayur wedding leading the groom to marry the wrong bride, engendering a cascade of uproarious events. Although similar premises have been explored in cinema, such as the 1992 film “Grihapravesham,” Vipin ensures that “Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil” is a fresh take, steering clear of any direct parallels save the core concept.
Prithviraj, whom Vipin praises for his comedic prowess, and Basil, a natural at humor according to the director and having previously collaborated in JJJJH, are anticipated to win the audience’s hearts with their portrayals. Filming locations spanned Kochi, Guruvayur, and Dubai, with significant scenes encapsulating the essence of Guruvayur temple, meticulously recreated in a set at Karattupallikkara in Perumbavoor.
An unforeseen delay during production occurred when Prithviraj met with an accident while working on another set, Vilayat Buddha. Nevertheless, the enthusiasm from the crew persists, fueled by the positive reception to the film’s trailer and the viral reach of the song ‘K for Krishna’, composed by Vinayak Sasikumar and performed by Aju Varghese.
Vipin, who prides himself on avoiding repetition and constantly seeking new narratives and genres, remarks, “To evolve artistically, diversifying one’s directorial portfolio is crucial. Thankfully, my filmography reflects my commitment to this principle.”
With “Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil”, Vipin Das opens the doors to a realm of merriment, prompting families to join the revelry as the screen comes alive, narrating a tale woven with laughter, love, and endless celebration.
