Hyderabad, Oct 1
Superstar Mammootty made a grand comeback to the film sets on Wednesday, arriving in Hyderabad to do what he does best -- breathe life into cinema.
This marks his first appearance at a film location after eight months, following a health scare that kept him under medical supervision at a plush hospital in Chennai.
Greeting the media for the first time since his illness, the 74-year-old actor broke his silence with heartfelt gratitude.
"Thanks for all the prayers. These prayers came with love, and they had their effect. I thank all those who prayed for me, thanks, thanks, thanks," Mammootty said, folding his hands in acknowledgment.
Even before the official shoot, Mammootty surprised the media in Chennai on Tuesday evening.
Photographers had gathered around his iconic luxury car, waiting for him to step out. Instead, he was at the wheel himself, smiling broadly as cameras clicked furiously.
Calm and composed, he walked away with his wife and close aide Anto Joseph, giving fans and journalists alike a moment to cherish.
Mammootty will spend the next two weeks in Hyderabad shooting for the highly anticipated big-budget film 'Patriot', directed by award-winning filmmaker Mahesh Narayanan.
The film boasts a stellar ensemble, including Dadasaheb Phalke Award winner Mohanlal and acclaimed actor Fahadh Faasil.
Narayanan confirmed that around 60 per cent of the film had already been shot before production was delayed due to Mammootty's treatment.
The team had initially aimed for a release next month, but the schedule will now be adjusted.
After wrapping up in Hyderabad, the shoot will move to London around mid-October, with the final leg possibly in Kochi, where Mammootty has currently settled.
Fans and colleagues alike have been eagerly awaiting his return, and Wednesday's glimpse of the superstar back in action was nothing short of a cinematic moment in itself.
With his characteristic energy and dedication, Mammootty is all set to light up the screen once again, reminding everyone why he remains the undisputed icon of Malayalam cinema.
— IANS
Reader Comments
At 74, driving himself and working with such energy - truly inspiring! Mammootty proves age is just a number. Hope the production team ensures he gets adequate rest between shoots though. Health should be priority.
The way he acknowledged everyone's prayers shows his grounded nature. In an industry where stars often become distant, Mammootty remains connected to his roots. Respect! ✨
Mahesh Narayanan + Mammootty + Mohanlal + Fahadh Faasil = Dream team! 🎬 The delay was worth it if it means Mammootty is fully recovered. Hope 'Patriot' becomes another milestone in Malayalam cinema.
While I'm happy to see him back, I hope the media gives him some space. Constant paparazzi attention can be stressful for someone recovering from health issues. Sometimes we need to respect boundaries.
The image of him driving his own car and smiling for cameras - pure class! â¤ï¸ This generation of actors teaches us so much about dignity and grace. Welcome back, Mammootty sir!
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