Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 26 (IANS) Malayalam cinema’s legendary star Mammootty is set to make a much-anticipated return to the sets after an eight-month break.

The 74-year-old actor, who has been away from public life owing to health concerns, will resume work on the big-budget film ‘Patriot’ in the first week of October at Ramoji Rao Film City, Hyderabad.

Directed by award-winning film-maker Mahesh Narayanan, ‘Patriot’ boasts one of the most star-studded line-ups in recent Malayalam cinema.

Sharing screen space with Mammootty are Dadasaheb Phalke Award winner Mohanlal and acclaimed actor Fahadh Faasil.

Narayanan confirmed that around 60 per cent of the film has already been shot, but production was delayed as Mammootty underwent treatment in Chennai.

The makers had originally aimed for a release next month, which will now be rescheduled.

The upcoming Hyderabad schedule has been chosen to ensure a smooth restart.

Shooting inside Ramoji Rao Film City will provide controlled conditions and allow the recovering superstar to work without the large fan gatherings that normally accompany his shoots.

In recent months, Mammootty has been staying in Chennai, away from his Kochi residence.

Sources close to the actor suggest he is likely to make Chennai his permanent base, partly due to ongoing medical care at a leading private hospital and also because his son, actor Dulquer Salmaan, has a residence in the city.

Years ago, Mammootty had moved from Chennai to Kochi to be closer to his native village, but the latest shift marks a significant personal decision.

Industry observers note that many Kerala actors prefer Chennai for the privacy it affords, unlike in Kerala where fan presence is constant.

Mammootty’s return to ‘Patriot’ not only signals his recovery but also builds anticipation around a film that brings together three of Malayalam cinema’s most powerful names.

For fans, his comeback is nothing short of a celebration.

–IANS

sg/rad