Amid growing speculation surrounding his reported collaboration with Mohanlal, acclaimed filmmaker Dileesh Pothan has shared fresh details about his next directorial venture. Speaking to journalist Babu Ramachandran's YouTube channel, the Maheshinte Prathikaaram filmmaker revealed that he is currently developing a new drama, which he described as both exciting and challenging. While the filmmaker did not mention any cast members or production details, his comments come shortly after producer Antony Perumbavoor of Aashirvad Cinemas confirmed that Dileesh would be directing a film starring Mohanlal.

Opening up about the project, Dileesh said he was immediately drawn to the story when he first heard it. "I am currently working on an idea. It was a plot that excited me when I first heard it. Like all the stories I have done before, it is an exciting plot but comes with its own set of challenges. This one is no different," he said.

According to Dileesh, the project is presently in the writing and pre-production stage. The story has been conceived by Paulson Skaria of Kaathal - The Core fame, while the screenplay is being developed jointly by Paulson and Dileesh's regular collaborator Syam Pushkaran. "We are in the writing and pre-production phase. It is still in the development stage, but I feel it is shaping up well. The first draft is almost complete," he added.

The filmmaker also shed light on the nature of the film, describing it as a drama that differs from his earlier directorial efforts. "It is a drama. We are still in the process of making the film and exploring its genre. I think it stands apart from my previous films to some extent. It is a film with a stronger dramatic element," Dileesh said.

Although Dileesh stopped short of confirming whether he was referring to the much-discussed Mohanlal project, his remarks have fuelled speculation that the film currently under development could be the same venture. Antony Perumbavoor recently confirmed the actor-director collaboration, backed by Malaikottai Vaaliban producer Shibu Baby John, during an interaction with fans on X (formerly Twitter) Spaces.

Widely regarded as one of the filmmakers who reshaped contemporary Malayalam cinema with critically acclaimed films such as Maheshinte Prathikaaram, Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum and Joji, Dileesh has largely focused on acting in recent years.