17-Jun-2025, 07:30 PM Noted Malayalam filmmaker Sanal Sasidharan has made serious allegations of plagiarism against the makers of the upcoming film Thudarum, starring superstar Mohanlal. In a strongly worded statement on social media, Sanal claimed that the central premise and emotional core of Thudarum are strikingly similar to a script he had written and discussed within industry circles years ago.
The plagiarism accusation has ignited debate in the Malayalam film industry, with discussions centering on intellectual property rights, originality in storytelling, and the influence of big-budget productions over independent filmmakers like Sanal Sasidharan, who are known for experimental and socially-conscious cinema.
Sanal Sasidharan : Accusation Shakes the Industry
Sanal Sasidharan Speaks Out About Intellectual Theft
In his Facebook post, Sanal Sasidharan revealed that the storyline of Thudarum, as depicted in its recently released teaser, mirrors the thematic and narrative skeleton of a project he had developed over five years ago. Although he did not name the production house directly, he hinted at prominent industry figures being aware of his concept and having access to an earlier synopsis.
According to Sanal, the film’s portrayal of an estranged father-daughter relationship set against a sociopolitical backdrop echoes a script he had once pitched to producers, including some associated with mainstream cinema.
“I have fought hard to tell stories that challenge the norm, and now, to see my narrative stripped of its soul and repackaged for commercial gains is deeply painful,” he wrote.
No Formal Legal Complaint Yet, Says Sanal Sasidharan
While the filmmaker has not yet filed a legal case, he has stated that he is “exploring options.” Sanal Sasidharan also appealed to the Kerala Film Chamber and the Malayalam Cine Technicians Association to take a stand in favor of ethical practices and protect creative property rights.
“Art is not a factory product. If original creators are silenced, our cinema loses its conscience,” he emphasized.
About Sanal Sasidharan – A Maverick in Malayalam Cinema
Sanal Sasidharan : Bold and Independent Cinematic Voice
Sanal Sasidharan is known for his bold, experimental style and unapologetic critique of societal issues through cinema. His earlier works such as Sexy Durga, Chola, and Unmadiyude Maranam have garnered acclaim internationally for their raw storytelling and unflinching political undertones.
Often walking a tightrope between acclaim and controversy, Sanal is seen as a fierce proponent of independent filmmaking in India. His conflict with the Censor Board during the release of Sexy Durga is well documented and established him as a director unafraid of pushing boundaries.
Given his track record and reputation for originality, the plagiarism accusation has drawn widespread attention within the film fraternity and from his loyal audience.
Advocacy for Creative Ownership in Indian Cinema
Sanal has long been vocal about the challenges faced by independent filmmakers, including lack of funding, creative suppression, and the unethical borrowing of ideas by bigger players. This latest episode has once again spotlighted the vulnerability of solo artists and the need for stronger frameworks for script registration and dispute resolution in India’s film industry.
What We Know About ‘Thudarum’ So Far
A Glimpse Into the Mohanlal-Starrer’s Plot and Themes
Thudarum, produced by a major banner and featuring Mohanlal in a central role, is reportedly a family drama with political overtones. The teaser suggests a narrative involving a powerful patriarch reconnecting with his estranged daughter under tense circumstances that intertwine personal trauma with larger social issues.
It is this plotline that Sanal Sasidharan claims was developed by him years ago. He alleges that the emotional tension, moral dilemma, and backdrop bear “unmistakable similarities” to his original concept, even though he had envisioned it with a smaller budget and a different cinematic style.
Makers of ‘Thudarum’ Deny Allegations
While there has been no formal press release from the production team of Thudarum, sources close to the project have dismissed the allegations as “baseless and coincidental.” They maintain that the story was developed in-house by a team of writers and is an original work.
“We have utmost respect for Mr. Sanal Sasidharan and his contributions to Malayalam cinema. However, any resemblance to other works is purely coincidental,” a crew member stated anonymously.
Reactions from the Malayalam Film Industry
Mixed Responses From Fellow Filmmakers and Actors
The response to Sanal Sasidharan’s accusations has been mixed. While several independent filmmakers and writers have come out in support, urging an open investigation into the matter, some established industry insiders have advised caution in making public allegations without legal backing.
Veteran screenwriter B. Unnikrishnan tweeted, “While it is important to protect creative ideas, such matters should ideally be resolved through the proper legal channels. Emotional appeals alone won’t bring justice.”
On the other hand, actor Vinay Forrt, who has worked with Sanal before, said, “Knowing Sanal, I don’t believe he would make such claims lightly. This should be looked into seriously.”
Audiences Also Weigh In
Social media has become a battleground for fans and followers, with the hashtags #StandWithSanal and #Thudarum trending in Kerala’s online circles. While some viewers believe Sanal’s voice must be heard and investigated, others argue that thematic overlaps are common in cinema and that intent must be proven with solid evidence.
Legal and Ethical Questions in Indian Filmmaking
The Need for Better Script Protection Laws
Sanal Sasidharan’s case once again highlights the lack of comprehensive legal infrastructure to protect original stories in the Indian film industry. While the Screenwriters Association does offer script registration services, enforcement remains a challenge.
Legal experts argue that many independent creators avoid litigation due to cost and duration, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation. Sanal’s situation, whether legally provable or not, has reignited the conversation about institutional reforms.
Will This Be a Turning Point?
Whether or not Sanal Sasidharan takes legal action, his vocal protest has struck a chord with many in the film industry who feel that the time has come to create a more level playing field. His stand could inspire more creators to speak out against intellectual theft and demand stronger protections.
Conclusion: Sanal Sasidharan’s Fight for Integrity in Cinema
The plagiarism accusation leveled by Sanal Sasidharan is more than just a personal grievance—it’s a call to defend creativity, artistic integrity, and the rights of independent voices in an increasingly commercialized film landscape.
As the controversy unfolds, all eyes will be on whether the industry responds with introspection and action or brushes it off as another fleeting debate. One thing is certain: Sanal Sasidharan has, once again, forced Malayalam cinema to confront uncomfortable truths.
