Jayasurya’s next big-screen outing is officially rolling. The makers of Mayan – Chapter 1 have announced that principal photography has begun, with the film’s first shooting schedule currently taking place in Russia. The mystery thriller, directed by Jithin K Jose, marks one of the actor’s most intriguing projects in recent times, blending mythology, folklore and suspense against an international backdrop.
While the production has now moved into its first phase overseas, the team is expected to shift base to Kerala later in August, where a significant portion of the story will reportedly unfold. The combination of international locations and Kerala’s rich cultural landscape hints at a visually distinctive film rooted in local traditions.
A Mystery Rooted In Kerala’s Lesser-Known Rituals
Mayan – Chapter 1 is directed by Jithin K Jose, who made his directorial debut with the Mammootty-starrer Kalamkaval. For his sophomore feature, the filmmaker is venturing into the mystery thriller genre with a story that draws inspiration from lesser-explored spiritual practices and beliefs.
According to the makers, the film revolves around the little-known ritual of vipareetha aaraadhana, while also delving into other obscure traditions believed to exist in parts of Kerala. Though the finer plot details remain tightly under wraps, the premise suggests a narrative that combines mystery with elements of folklore and the supernatural.
The screenplay has been jointly written by Jithin and veteran filmmaker Raffi, whose long association with Malayalam cinema spans several commercially successful films across genres. Their collaboration is expected to balance atmospheric storytelling with mainstream appeal.
Joining Jayasurya in the cast are Nyla Usha, Vijay Babu, Niranjana Anoop and Dies Irae actor Jibin Gopinath, all of whom are set to play pivotal roles in the unfolding mystery.
Familiar Collaborators Return Behind The Camera
Jithin has reunited with several technicians who worked on Kalamkaval, bringing together a creative team that already shares an established working rhythm. Cinematographer Faisal Ali returns to capture the film’s visual world, while Mujeeb Majeed is composing the music. Editing duties have once again been entrusted to Praveen Prabhakar.
The film is being bankrolled by Rajeev Govindan under the Magic Moon Productions banner, with the makers positioning Mayan – Chapter 1 as the beginning of what could potentially become a larger cinematic narrative.
For Jayasurya, the project adds another ambitious title to an increasingly diverse lineup. The actor is currently awaiting the release of Kathanar: The Wild Sorcerer, one of Malayalam cinema’s most anticipated fantasy spectacles. He also has Titans, co-starring Vinayakan, in the pipeline.
Beyond those releases, Jayasurya will also be seen in Operation Tral, the directorial debut of composer Ratheesh Vega. The military-themed action thriller further reflects the actor’s continued interest in exploring varied genres, from fantasy and action to mythology-driven mysteries.
Also Read: Operation Tral First Look: Jayasurya Steps Into The Shadows Of A High-Stakes Intelligence Thriller
