Kishkindha Kaandam OTT release date confirmed: When, where to stream Asif Ali's hit family-friendly thriller

Disney+ Hotstar on Monday confirmed the digital premiere date for the recent Malayalam hit Kishkindha Kaandam. Starring Asif Ali in the lead role, the movie will be available for streaming on November 19, nearly 10 weeks after its initial theatrical release.

Kishkindha Kaandam originally hit cinemas on September 12, coinciding with the Onam festival. At a time when many South Indian films are streaming within four weeks of their theatrical release, an increasing number of Malayalam films are avoiding early OTT releases to prioritize box office performance.

This shift reflects Malayalam cinema's response to streaming platforms' reluctance to partner with Malayalam films for pre-release deals. Unlike the Tamil and Telugu industries, Malayalam producers rarely receive high-value offers from streaming giants, prompting a greater reliance on box office revenue to recoup their investments. After experiencing a lull in recent years, the Malayalam film industry has made a strong comeback with a streak of box office successes, blending mainstream appeal with refined storytelling that resonates with both critics and mass audiences.

Kishkindha Kaandam has been a notable box office success, especially given its modest budget and scale. Reports indicate that the film grossed over Rs 75 crore worldwide against a Rs 7 crore budget.

The film debuted in cinemas during the Onam festival alongside Tovino Thomas's Ajayante Randam Moshanam (ARM), which was also commercially successful. Kishkindha Kaandam received glowing reviews and performed well in ticket sales.

Directed by debutant Dinjith Ayyathan from a script by Sanilesh Shivan, Kishkindha Kaandam is set in a verdant small town in Kerala and delves into themes of loss, reconciliation, and the enduring effects of painful memories. Alongside Asif Ali, the movie stars Aparna Balamurali and Vijayaraghavan in key roles.

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