Veteran actor Mammootty on Saturday showered praise on Aashaan at the film’s pre-release event, where he attended as the chief guest for the trailer launch. Directed by Johnpaul George, the film stars Indrans in the lead and is slated to release in theatres on February 5.

Speaking on stage after watching the trailer, Mammootty said he was already familiar with the story of Aashaan and felt it had the potential to become a film “unlike anything Malayalam cinema has seen so far.” He added that the trailer reflected strong performances and a high technical standard, and noted that these very qualities convinced him to be part of the launch.

Mammootty also reserved special praise for Indrans, calling his recent body of work nothing short of astonishing. Reflecting on the actor’s journey, he said that roles which were once shaped by stereotypes had now given way to performances that command admiration. “What were once seen as his shortcomings have today become his greatest strengths,” Mammootty remarked, adding that Indrans is now “putting other actors to shame” with his craft.

Citing recent films such as Jaladhara Pumpset Since 1962 and Kuttante Shinigami, Mammootty said Indrans’ performances left him stunned. Speaking about Kuttante Shinigami, he recalled being awestruck by the actor’s portrayal of Kaalan (the god of death), calling it both unexpected and wonderful. He also praised co-actor Jaffer Idukki and described the film as a fine piece of work.

Produced by Guppy Cinemas, Aashaan is billed as a quirky meta-comedy drama built around a film-within-a-film narrative, with Indrans appearing in multiple avatars. Mammootty concluded his address by urging audiences not to overlook the film, stating that he had attended the event precisely to introduce a work with such distinct and promising qualities.