Bramayugam at Oscars: How Mammootty’s Folk Horror Made Academy History

‘Bramayugam’: Mammootty film enters Oscar Academy space

In a landmark moment for Indian cinema, Mammootty’s chilling period thriller Bramayugam is stepping onto one of the world’s most hallowed cinematic stages. Forget just box office records—this film is now part of an elite global conversation on folklore and fear. But what does this mean for Mammootty, for Malayalam cinema, and for fans who’ve been captivated by its black-and-white dread? Let’s dive in.

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Bramayugam at Oscars: A Milestone for Mammootty

On February 12, 2026, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles will host an exclusive screening of Bramayugam. This isn’t just another international festival nod; it’s a curated inclusion in the museum’s prestigious series, marking the first time ever that a Mammootty-starrer will grace this iconic venue . The film has been singled out as the only Indian entry in the entire program, placing it alongside globally recognized classics of the folk horror genre . This event, while not a direct Oscar nomination, is a powerful signal of the film’s artistic merit and its resonance with international curators who shape cinematic discourse.

What is Bramayugam and Why Does it Matter?

Released in 2024, Bramayugam is a Malayalam-language period folk horror film that eschewed color for a stark, atmospheric black-and-white presentation. Directed by the rising auteur Rahul Sadasivan, the film stars the legendary Mammootty in a role that demanded immense restraint and depth. Set in a mysterious manor during the eponymous dark age from Hindu cosmology, the story weaves together themes of myth, paranoia, and hidden truths.

The film was a massive critical and commercial success, grossing over ₹85 crore worldwide and becoming one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of its year . Its success proved that audiences are hungry for intelligent, homegrown horror that draws from India’s rich tapestry of folklore, rather than relying on Western tropes.

Inside the “Where the Forest Meets the Sea” Folklore Series

The context of this screening is crucial. Bramayugam is being featured as part of the Academy Museum’s curated series titled “Where the Forest Meets the Sea: Folklore from Around the World” . This series is dedicated to exploring how global cinema uses local myths, legends, and supernatural beliefs to tell universal stories of human fear and resilience.

By including Bramayugam, the Academy is acknowledging the power and sophistication of India’s own folk horror tradition. It places Mammootty’s film in direct dialogue with other seminal works in the genre, highlighting its unique contribution to a worldwide cinematic language. This is a form of cultural diplomacy through art, and it’s a huge win for the film’s team.

The Visionary Behind the Masterpiece: Rahul Sadasivan

While Mammootty’s towering presence is undeniable, the true architect of Bramayugam’s unsettling brilliance is director Rahul Sadasivan. Known for his previous psychological horror hit Bhoothakaalam, Sadasivan has carved a niche for himself as a master of slow-burn, atmospheric terror rooted in Indian contexts .

His vision for Bramayugam was deeply personal, drawing from the stories and fears he grew up with. In his own words, the film “comes from the stories I grew up hearing, the fears that stayed, the silences that spoke volumes” . This authenticity is what resonates so powerfully with audiences and critics alike, both at home and now, on the global stage. The news of the Academy screening left him “truly overwhelmed,” a testament to the hard work and passion behind the project .

The Ripple Effect on Indian Cinema

This recognition is far more than just a feather in Mammootty’s cap or a line on Sadasivan’s resume. It’s a seismic event for the entire Indian film industry, particularly for regional cinema.

Here’s why it matters:

  • Global Validation: It proves that high-quality, culturally specific Indian stories have a place in the most respected international forums.
  • Elevating Regional Cinema: It shines a massive spotlight on Malayalam cinema, encouraging other regional industries to invest in bold, original storytelling.
  • Redefining Horror: It moves the needle on what “Indian horror” can be, showing that it can be cerebral, artistic, and deeply rooted in our own heritage, not just a collection of jump scares.

For aspiring filmmakers across India, this is a powerful message: your local story, told with honesty and craft, can travel the world. This moment could inspire a new wave of folk-inspired narratives from every corner of the country.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Global Recognition

The screening of Bramayugam at the Academy Museum is a historic achievement that transcends a simple event listing. It’s a cultural milestone that validates the artistic power of Indian folklore on a global platform. For Mammootty, it’s a new, prestigious chapter in his illustrious career. For Rahul Sadasivan, it’s well-deserved international acclaim. And for all of us who love Indian cinema, it’s a moment of immense pride and a hopeful sign of the incredible stories yet to come. Keep an eye on February 12, 2026—it’s a date that will be remembered in the annals of our cinematic history.

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