Khalifa film clears censorship ahead of August 20 release

The Malayalam film Khalifa, starring Prithviraj Sukumaran and directed by Vysakh, has received a UA 16+ certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification. The action thriller is scheduled for theatrical release on August 20, 2026.

The film follows Aamir Ali, a gold smuggler played by Sukumaran, and his expansive business operations. The cast includes Malvika Sharma in the female lead, with Mohanlal appearing in a cameo role as Mambarakkal Ahmed Ali. Other cast members include Anand Manmadhan, who plays a character named Rahim, as well as Mohini, Kyraa Vasudevan, and Shammi Thilakan.

Production for the film wrapped in June following location shoots in Dubai. Khalifa is positioned as one of the major Onam festival releases for the year.