Malayalam cinema, also known as Mollywood, has a rich history dating back to the 1920s. It is one of the most popular and influential film industries in India, producing over 150 films a year. The industry is based in Kerala, a state in southwestern India, and has gained a significant following not only in India but also globally. The first Malayalam film, "Balan," was released in 1938, directed by S. Nottanandan. However, it was the film "Mammootty" (1948) that gained popularity and paved the way for the growth of the industry. The 1950s saw the emergence of notable filmmakers like G. R. Rao and P. A. Thomas, who made significant contributions to the development of Malayalam cinema. Golden Era (1960s-1980s) The 1960s to 1980s are considered the golden era of Malayalam cinema. This period saw the rise of legendary filmmakers like Adoor Gopalakrishnan, K. S. Sethumadhavan, and P. Chandrakumar. They produced films that were critically acclaimed and commercially successful, exploring themes like social justice, politics, and human relationships. Karthik K Novels Scribd Free Apr 2026