Mammootty-starrer The Priest, which was supposed to be released on Thursday (March 4), has been postponed as the team could not get approval from the Kerala government for night shows.

In a statement, the team of The Priest said, "Owing to the fact that theatres in other countries remain closed and the lack of approval for four shows in Kerala, we are compelled to postpone the release of The Priest."

Directed by debutant Jofin T Chacko, The Priest is one of the big upcoming releases depending on second shows to draw more crowds.

As the Kerala Assembly Elections are around the corner, a decision on the film's release is likely to be made once it concludes.

A mystery thriller, The Priest also stars Manju Warrier, Nikhila Vimal and Saniya Iyyappan, among others.