The makers of Jayasurya-starrer Mayan - Chapter 1 have announced that the film has commenced its first schedule of filming in Russia. According to sources, the Kerala schedule is expected to begin later in August.

Directed by Jithin K Jose, who made his directorial debut with the Mammootty-starrer Kalamkaval, Mayan also stars Nyla Usha, Vijay Babu, Niranjana Anoop and Dies Irae-fame Jibin Gopinath in prominent roles. The screenplay has been co-written by Jithin and veteran filmmaker Raffi.

According to the makers, the mystery thriller explores the lesser-known ritual of vipareetha aaraadhana and other obscure traditions believed to exist in Kerala.

Mayan reunites Jithin with several members of his Kalamkaval technical team, including cinematographer Faisal Ali, music director Mujeeb Majeed and editor Praveen Prabhakar. The film is produced by Rajeev Govindan under the banner of Magic Moon Productions.

Meanwhile, Jayasurya is awaiting the release of the fantasy epic Kathanar: The Wild Sorcerer and Titans, co-starring Vinayakan. The Aadu actor also has composer Ratheesh Vega's directorial debut Operation Tral, a military-based action thriller, in the pipeline.