“Bethlehem Kudumba Unit,” starring Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju, has expanded beyond the Malayalam market with dubbed Tamil and Telugu versions releasing in theatres after a strong theatrical run. The film, which arrived during the Onam release season, has continued to attract audiences since its opening. Its performance has helped it emerge as one of the notable Malayalam successes of 2026, while the new-language releases are expected to widen its reach among audiences outside Kerala.
The Tamil and Telugu versions hit theatres on September 4, with the Telugu release generating particular interest in Hyderabad. Mythri Movie Distributors, which is handling the Telugu release, announced additional early morning shows in the city following strong demand. The expansion comes as the film continues its theatrical run in Malayalam, giving the makers an opportunity to build on its success by reaching audiences in two major southern Indian markets.
“Bethlehem Kudumba Unit” opened strongly at the box office, earning ₹4.90 crore on its first day before its collections increased to ₹7.15 crore on the second day and ₹8.80 crore on the third. The film subsequently crossed the ₹100 crore mark in India and maintained its momentum into its second week. According to trade estimates cited in the report, its second week alone contributed nearly ₹58 crore to its India gross, underlining the film’s sustained audience interest.
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The film has reportedly collected ₹231.25 crore worldwide, comprising ₹119.25 crore from India and ₹112 crore from overseas markets. Its India net collection has also crossed ₹102 crore, according to trade estimates. The film has become only the fourth Malayalam movie to cross the ₹100 crore mark in Kerala, placing it among the stronger performers of the industry in recent years. Its continuing theatrical run could further improve its position among the year's biggest Malayalam releases.
Directed by Girish AD and produced by Bhavana Studios, “Bethlehem Kudumba Unit” blends romance, family emotions and nostalgia. The story follows Ashley, played by Mamitha Baiju, who moves with her family from Mundakayam to a new neighbourhood in Karukutty. She develops a relationship with Justin, portrayed by Nivin Pauly, an older neighbour. The film explores their bond alongside themes of family relationships, memories, love and starting over.
Following its theatrical run, the film is expected to premiere on JioHotstar, with the streaming rights reportedly acquired by the platform. However, an official OTT release date has not yet been announced. Meanwhile, the Tamil and Telugu releases provide the film with another opportunity to extend its box-office performance. With its strong domestic and overseas collections and continued theatrical demand, the film is also looking to challenge other major Malayalam releases for the position of the highest-grossing Malayalam film of 2026.
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