Veteran actor Mohanlal expressed his joy and pride as the 4K restoration of the Malayalam classic Kireedam (1989) premiered at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. The restored film, screened under the Special Screenings section, received an enthusiastic response from audiences and cinema enthusiasts alike. Sharing his thoughts on X, Mohanlal expressed deep gratitude for the effort behind reviving a film so close to his heart. Calling the experience both “delighted” and “an honour,” he highlighted the meticulous restoration work undertaken before the premiere.

He stated, “Delighted to share the world premiere of the 4K restoration of Kireedam (1989), presented as part of the Special Screenings at the 56th IFFI, Goa. The film has been meticulously restored by NFDC-National Film Archive of India from a 35mm release print, thankfully preserved by the archive for decades after the original camera negative had deteriorated. The final grading was supervised by the film's cinematographer, S. Kumar. It is an honour to witness this classic return to the screen.”

Mohanlal also praised India’s archival initiatives, emphasizing their importance for future generations. He described the revival as “heartening,” adding, “It is heartening to see Kireedam revived under the National Film Heritage Mission. My best wishes to NFDC-NFAI as they continue preserving and presenting India’s cinematic heritage for future generations, in both digital and analog formats.”

Directed by Sibi Malayil and written by A.K. Lohithadas, Kireedam is one of Malayalam cinema’s most celebrated dramas, portraying the tragic downfall of Sethumadhavan, a young man whose dream of becoming a police officer is shattered by fate—a performance that earned Mohanlal a National Award Special Jury Mention. On the work front, Mohanlal was last seen in Hridayapoorvam and is now preparing for the release of Vrusshabhaa, a Telugu-Malayalam bilingual period action drama set to hit theatres this Christmas.