Bethlehem Kudumba Unit to stream on JioHotstar from October 2

Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju's Bethlehem Kudumba Unit is ready for its digital debut. The Malayalam romantic comedy, directed by Girish AD, will start streaming on JioHotstar from October 2. The film opened in cinemas on August 21 and is still drawing audiences to theatres weeks later.

The film has become a landmark for Malayalam cinema. It is the first film to collect Rs 150 crore in Kerala alone and now stands as the biggest grosser the industry has seen. Its worldwide total has reportedly gone past Rs 325 crore, and reports say it has overtaken recent giants such as Lokah Chapter 1 Chandra, Thudarum and L2 Empuraan.

Telugu fans have reason to cheer. The streaming version will reportedly be available in several languages, Telugu among them. Viewers who missed the Malayalam release in theatres can catch it in their own language.

Mamitha Baiju plays Ashley, whose family moves from Mundakayam to a new neighbourhood in Karukutty. There she is drawn to Justin, a bachelor in his thirties played by Nivin Pauly, who is more than ten years older than her. A careful friendship slowly turns into an unexpected romance. Along the way the film brings in family bonds, nostalgia and the hope of a fresh start.

Girish AD wrote the film with Kiran Josey. It is produced by Bhavana Studios, the banner of Fahadh Faasil, Dileesh Pothan and Syam Pushkaran. Vishnu Vijay composed the music. Sangeeth Prathap, Vinay Forrt, Suresh Krishna and Roshan Shanavas play key supporting roles.

Nivin Pauly has reportedly said the team never expected the film to grow this big. He credited honest writing and direction for the way audiences connected with it. He also said a film made with sincerity earns the audience's love in return.