The upcoming Malayalam big-ticket film Patriot, starring Mohanlal and Mammootty, has reportedly run into a last-minute hurdle with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). According to reports, the makers have been asked to make a significant change in the film before certification can be granted. As per a report by Mathrubhumi, the CBFC has objected to the name of the film’s villain due to its similarity to the name of a politician’s son.

The authorities have allegedly instructed the team to alter the character’s name to avoid any possible controversy or political sensitivity surrounding the release. The report further states that, apart from the name change, certain scenes from the film have also been removed. Additional references and names are said to have been modified as part of the suggested revisions.

These changes are reportedly being executed at Lal Media Studio in Kochi, where work on the updated version has already begun. Despite the unexpected development, the makers are said to be moving swiftly to complete the edits and submit the revised version for certification. The production team is hopeful of receiving the censor certificate soon and remains keen on retaining the film’s current theatrical release date of May 1, 2026.

Interestingly, May 1 was not the original release date for Patriot. The action thriller was initially slated to hit cinemas on April 23, but the release was postponed. While the exact reason behind the earlier delay was not officially disclosed, the latest reports suggest certification-related issues may have contributed to the shift.

Directed by Mahesh Narayanan, Patriot is one of the most anticipated Malayalam releases of the year. The spy action thriller is written, co-edited and directed by Narayanan, and produced by Anto Joseph and K. G.

Anil Kumar. The film boasts a star-studded ensemble cast featuring Mammootty, Mohanlal, Fahadh Faasil, Kunchacko Boban, Nayanthara and Revathy. With such a powerful line-up, the project has generated considerable buzz among cinema lovers.

The music for Patriot has been composed by Sushin Shyam, who has delivered acclaimed scores in recent years. As the team works through the final certification process, all eyes are now on whether the film will arrive in theatres as scheduled on May 1. Also Read: Mohanlal receives interim protection for his personality rights from Delhi High Court; actor adds new defendants to suit