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'Varanasi' star Prithviraj Sukumaran has several projects in the pipeline including, 'Khalifa' and 'I,Nobody'. Recently, he has shared fresh insights into the making of 'Khalifa', revealing that the film gradually transformed from a single feature into a larger cinematic universe. Directed by Vysakh, the action entertainer is scheduled for an Onam 2026 release. Mohanlal appears in a cameo as Mambarakkal Ahmed Ali in the actioner.


Prithviraj Sukumaran says mass cinema is the toughest genre to make

During his conversation with The Hollywood Reporter India, Prithviraj reflected on commercial filmmaking and why he considers it one of cinema's most demanding formats. He said, "To me, it is the toughest kind of film to make because you are making it to elicit a reaction."

The actor also spoke about the filmmakers who inspired his approach to mainstream entertainers. He added, "It requires incredible skill, which is why I hold these filmmakers in high regard." Prithviraj credited legendary directors Manmohan Desai and IV Sasi for mastering the art of mass entertainers and creating films that consistently connected with audiences.

How Mohanlal's character became much bigger in 'Khalifa'

Prithviraj revealed that writer Jinu Abraham had already imagined a rich backstory for Mambarakkal Ahmed Ali during the earliest story discussions. Recalling those initial conversations, he said, "In the first narration itself we knew that there is a story behind the grandfather's character." He further explained how the team originally viewed the idea. "Back then, we thought, 'Okay, if this film does well, we would talk about a sequel/prequel with the grandfather as the protagonist.'"

After completing the first production schedule in London, the makers felt even more confident about expanding the universe.

Explaining the turning point, Prithviraj said, "What we achieved there gave all of us such confidence that we decided, 'Okay, now this Mambarakkal Ahmed Ali, the grandfather, no longer needs to be just up in the air. We are going to put it out there in concrete fashion.'"

Prithviraj Sukumaran's humorous call to Mohanlal

The actor also recalled the light-hearted phone conversation in which he approached Mohanlal about taking on the expanded role. Sharing the amusing exchange, Prithviraj said, "I called him and said, 'Okay, you have played my dad. How about playing my granddad?' Him being a sweetheart said, 'Of course, pinnentha mone!' (of course, why not!)."

'I, Nobody' set for July release

While excitement continues to build around Khalifa, Prithviraj is also preparing for the release of I, Nobody. Directed by Nissam Basheer , the heist thriller is slated to arrive in theatres worldwide on July 9, 2026.

The film stars Parvathy Thiruvothu alongside Prithviraj. It follows Rajeevan, an ordinary government employee whose life is thrown into turmoil after he is accused of masterminding a massive bank robbery.