Is Kalamkaval Based On True Events? Mammootty's Character Is Inspired By Serial Killer Cyanide Mohan

Mammootty is back again with one of the most talked-about films, Kalamkaval, released on December 5, 2025. The actor, who never shies away from experimental roles, has done the same again. The crime drama directed by debutant Jithin K. Jose, who co-wrote the screenplay with Jishnu Sreekumar, also stars Vinayakan, Gibin Gopinath, Gayatri Arun, Rajisha Vijayan, and Shruti Ramachandran in key roles. 

The film has become more compelling as it gave Mammootty a complete role reversal. He is not playing a victim or a misunderstood man in the film; rather, he is outrightly the unfiltered antagonist, doing complete justice to the evil character he is portraying in the film. The film is reportedly based on true events, and Mammootty’s character is inspired by 'Cyanide Mohan', a ruthless serial killer who targeted women as his prey.

Kalamkaval’s plot

The story begins with the case of a missing woman in rural Thiruvananthapuram, which soon spirals into a web of intrigue. As the police begin to investigate the case, they detect a similar pattern and notice several women have disappeared under the pretext of eloping. Vinayakan plays the role of ‘Jayakrishnan’, who investigates the case of missing women, and soon starts chasing Mammootty.

On the other hand, Mammootty is seen in a completely different role as a habitual womaniser, dissolving into it without leaving any traces behind. His approach towards his victims, by posing as Vivek, Joshua, Rajesh, Sethu, Lijo, and Ameer, with his effortless charm, shows his confidence and the crime he has perfected over the years. Mammootty's role has intrigued the audience, who are now more curious to learn about Cyanide Mohan, the inspiration behind it.

Who is Cyanide Mohan?

Mohan Kumar Vivekanand was born in Kanyana village in 1963 to parents who were daily wage workers. He began his career as a school teacher but was frequently suspended for misconduct. He was married three times and had two children with each of his second and third wives. He began his serial killing between 2004 and 2009.

How did Mohan Kumar become ‘Cyanide Mohan’?

His unstable job led him to commit a heinous crime against women. He targeted unmarried women while posing as a government officer. He lured his victims and trapped them for marriage by making them believe in a happily ever after. He would take his victims to distant places, spend the night with them, and give them cyanide pills disguised as contraceptives. After the victim dies, he would take away their jewellery and flee.

Cyanide Mohan confessed to killing 20 women

It was after the murder of Anitha Mulya in 2009 that an extensive investigation was conducted, leading to Mohan’s arrest on October 21, 2009. After his arrest, Mohan confessed to killing 20 women. He was initially sentenced to death in five cases; two of the death penalties were later changed to life imprisonment. He is currently serving a life imprisonment at Hindalga Central Prison, Belagavi.

Did you know that Mammootty’s character in Kalamkaval was inspired by ‘Cyanide Mohan’?

Also Read: 'Akhanda 2' Makers Share New Update About Nandamuri Balakrishna's Film Release, 'Coming Very Soon..'

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