By Vivekanandan Viralanu’ OTT Premiere: Shine Tom Chacko and Swasika’s Comedy-Drama to Stream on THIS Date
After a long hiatus, veteran Malayalam director Kamal returned to the director’s chair with Vivekanandan Viralanu, a comedy-drama starring Shine Tom Chacko. Despite its strong premise and social relevance, the film did not perform as expected at the box office. However, audiences who missed the theatrical release now have a second chance to watch it, as the movie is set for an OTT premiere.
The film will debut on Aha VideoIN on February 7th, as announced by the streaming platform. In a social media post, Aha teased its upcoming release, writing, “Get ready to laugh out loud! #Vivekanandanviral Premiering February 7th, only on Aha.” This announcement has sparked interest among those curious to see Kamal’s latest venture, particularly as it deals with sensitive and thought-provoking themes.
Vivekanandan Viralanu is a significant milestone for its lead actor, Shine Tom Chacko, as it marks his 100th film. In the movie, he plays Vivekanandan, a seemingly respectable government employee who hides a deeply disturbing side. Beneath his professional exterior, he harbors violent and predatory sexual tendencies, using his power to exploit and harass those around him—especially his wife, Meera, and his live-in partner, Anjali. Despite his actions being noticed, Vivekanandan repeatedly manipulates situations to escape consequences, using his influence to silence those who attempt to fight back.
However, the story takes a dramatic turn when Meera, Anjali, and other victims finally decide that they will no longer suffer in silence. Instead of resorting to physical retaliation, they devise a plan to expose him in the most impactful way possible—public humiliation. Their journey to justice highlights the power of unity and resilience, making for an intense and emotional narrative.
Despite its powerful themes, Vivekanandan Viralanu has received mixed reviews from critics. A review by ETimes acknowledges the film’s attempt to address pressing issues like sexual harassment, consent, and systemic failure to protect victims—topics that have been central to other recent Malayalam films such as Neru and Aattam. However, while Aattam took a unique approach by refraining from conventional justice, Vivekanandan Viralanu seeks redemption through a different lens.
The review further critiques the execution, stating that the film’s second half lacks the finesse expected from an experienced filmmaker like Kamal. The storytelling, particularly in the latter portions, appears inconsistent and somewhat scattered. Additionally, the film’s use of social media as a tool for justice is described as underdeveloped, failing to carry the weight needed for such a serious subject.
Despite these criticisms, Vivekanandan Viralanu stands out for its bold narrative and commitment to addressing real-world issues. The performances, particularly by Shine Tom Chacko, Swasika, and the supporting cast, have been praised for adding emotional depth to the story. Kamal’s direction, while not flawless, still manages to create moments of tension and impact.
As the film prepares for its streaming release on February 7th, it offers a chance for audiences to engage with its themes and form their own opinions. For those who appreciate cinema that delves into social issues while maintaining a dramatic and engaging storyline, Vivekanandan Viralanu presents an opportunity for reflection and discussion. Whether the film ultimately succeeds in delivering its message effectively remains a question for viewers to decide. However, its arrival on Aha ensures that a wider audience will now have access to this thought-provoking piece of Malayalam cinema.
