14 September,2026 09:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Bethlehem Kudumba Unit. Pic via X
Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju's latest film Bethlehem Kudumba Unit is making big waves at the box office. The romantic comedy has now become Malayalam cinema's highest-grossing film, beating Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra. The film has achieved the feat within just 24 days of its theatrical release.
The film has reportedly earned Rs 304.9 crore worldwide in just 24 days. The film became the highest-grossing Malayalam film on Sunday, September 13. Its worldwide haul places it above Lokah's reported lifetime collection of Rs 302 crore.
Notably, Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra, starring Kalyani Priyadarshan, had earlier established itself as Malayalam cinema's highest-grossing film after an exceptional run in 2025. According to Sacnilk, the film's worldwide collection stood at around Rs 302 crore .
The record is particularly significant for Bethlehem Kudumba Unit because of the pace at which it has reached the milestone. The film managed to cross the Rs 300-crore mark worldwide within 24 days, highlighting the strength of its theatrical run.
The feat also marks a significant comeback for actor Nivin Pauly, who headlines the film alongside Mamitha Baiju.
Additionally, Bethlehem Kudumba Unit's success also marks another remarkable chapter to the recent growing trend of Malayalam cinema at the box office. In the past few years, the industry has pushed its own benchmarks with films like Manjummel Boys, 2018, L2: Empuraan and Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra.
Bethlehem Kudumba Unit is directed by Girish AD and produced by Bhavana Studios, which is backed by Dileesh Pothan, Fahadh Faasil and Syam Pushkaran. The film is written by Girish and Kiran Josey and is a mix of romance, family emotions and nostalgia.
The film follows the story of Ashley (Mamitha Baiju), who moves with her family from Mundakayam to a new neighbourhood in Karukutty. At her new location, she finds herself drawn to Justin, played by Nivin Pauly. Justin is an older neighbour who is about 12-13 years older than her.
As their bond grows, the film explores the themes of love, family relationships, old memories and the chance to start over again.
