Before Bethlehem Kudumba Unit, Nivin Pauly, Mamitha Baiju Were In This 2023 Onam Release – Can You Guess?

Nivin Pauly is enjoying a fantastic run at the ticket windows with his latest release, Bethlehem Kudumba Unit. Co-starring Mamitha Baiju and benefiting from strong word of mouth, the Malayalam film has witnessed impressive growth over its opening weekend, crossing the Rs 20 crore mark at the box office and emerging as an Onam winner. Directed by Girish AD, the film is winning praise for its unconventional romance and the chemistry between its leads. However, not many may know that Bethlehem Kudumba Unit is not Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju’s first film together.

The two actors previously appeared together in the 2023 Malayalam heist comedy Ramachandra Boss and Co, which hit theatres on August 25, 2023, during the Onam festive season. Directed and written by Haneef Adeni, the film starred  as Ramachandra Boss, also known as Boss Bonaventure, while  played Sophia. The cast also included Vinay Forrt, Jaffer Idukki and Aarsha Chandini Baiju. The film was produced by Listin Stephen under Magic Frames and Nivin Pauly through Pauly Jr Pictures.

Set in the United Arab Emirates, Ramachandra Boss and Co followed a group of expatriates who come together under Boss to execute an ambitious heist involving the Amar Palace. Nivin played the mastermind behind the operation, while Mamitha portrayed one of the key members of his team, Sophia. Unlike Bethlehem Kudumba Unit, however, their characters were not romantically involved.

The film opened to a modest response at the box office and ultimately underperformed. It received mixed reviews, with criticism aimed at its pacing and comedy, and struggled to compete during the crowded Onam season, against the action blockbuster RDX.

The duo have now reunited for , with the two actors taking on lead roles in a romantic comedy for the first time. The film follows Ashley and Justin, two neighbours whose affection gradually develops into a secret romance despite opposition from those around them. The age-gap love story explores family expectations, social judgement and the challenges the couple face as they attempt to unite. Produced by Bhavana Studios, Fahadh Faasil, Dileesh Pothan and Syam Pushkaran, the film was released on August 21, 2026, as part of the Onam season. Interestingly Mamitha Baiju, Nivin Pauly also reunited with their Ramachandra And Co actor Vinay Forrt in this film, marking the trio’s first successful festive release.