Joju George birthday: Paripadi, his second as director

Joju George turns a year older on October 22, and his second film as director is already on its way. After Pani (2024), he writes, directs and stars in Paripadi, where he plays Deluxe Benny.

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Paripadi, his second film as director

Venu Kunnappilly produces Paripadi under Kavya Film Company, the banner behind Zera, which unveiled its first look this morning. The title was revealed on April 17, 2026.

Yuvan Shankar Raja composes the music, in his first Malayalam film. Rajeev Ravi is the cinematographer, Manu Antony edits and Anbariv handle the stunts. The film is reportedly eyeing a Christmas release.

The actor behind the director

Joju played the title role in Joseph (2018) and also sang in the film, which is now being remade in Hindi as Suryaa. He played ASI Maniyan in Nayattu (2021) and took on a double role in Iratta (2023), which he also produced.

In Tamil cinema

In Tamil, he played Sivadoss in Jagame Thandhiram (2021), Thilagan in Retro (2025) and Pathros in Thug Life (2025).

Joseph and the turn to lead roles

Joseph was the film that turned Joju from a familiar supporting face into a lead actor. He played a retired police officer in the film, and the role won him a Special Mention at the 66th National Film Awards. At the Kerala State Film Awards, he was named Best Character Actor for his work in Joseph and Chola.

Pani, the first film as director

Joju made his debut as director with Pani, which released in theatres on October 24, 2024. He wrote the action thriller and also played the lead. Paripadi continues that path, with Joju once again handling writing, direction and the lead role.

What to watch next

For viewers who want to catch up before Paripadi, the films listed above trace his range, from the cop drama Nayattu to the double role in Iratta and his recent Tamil turns with Karthik Subbaraj and Mani Ratnam in Retro and Thug Life. Paripadi is produced by the same banner, Kavya Film Company, that is behind Ranjan Pramod's Night Shows.

Also read: Aasha OTT release: Urvashi and Joju George's thriller on Malayalam Zee5