Balti is one of the most anticipated Malayalam films of 2025, directed by Unni Sivalingam. The sports drama revolves around the world of kabaddi, set on the Kerala–Tamil Nadu border in Velampalayam, where the sport is more than just a game — it’s a way of life.

Balti – A Sports Drama with Kabaddi at Its Core

Starring Shane Nigam, the movie combines action, rivalry, and emotional drama as friendships turn into rivalries against the backdrop of kabaddi courts and gang conflicts.

Balti Release Date

The film is slated for theatrical release on September 29, 2025. Along with Malayalam, it will also release in Tamil, giving the story a wider reach across South India.

Balti – Cast and Characters

Shane Nigam as Udhayan, a kabaddi player
Selvaraghavan in a key role
Shanthnu Bhagyaraj in a supporting role
Alphonse Puthren, marking his acting debut as Soda Babu, a violent gangster
Preethi Asrani and real kabaddi players in pivotal roles

The character reveal of Alphonse Puthren as Soda Babu has already created buzz, showing him in a raw, intense avatar.

Is Balti a Real Story?

No. Balti is not based on real events. It is a fictional sports action drama, written and directed by Unni Sivalingam, inspired by the spirit of kabaddi but driven by an original story of love, betrayal, ambition, and revenge.

Production and Technical Crew

The film is jointly produced by Santosh T. Kuruvilla (STK Frames) and Binu Alexander George, with Sherin Rachel Santhosh as co-producer.

Cinematography: Alex J Pulickal
Editing: Shivkumar V Panicker
Music: Sai Abhyankkar, popular Tamil composer, making his Malayalam debut with both songs and background score

Shooting Locations

Balti has been shot extensively in Coimbatore, Palakkad, and Pollachi, regions that add authenticity to the kabaddi-centric narrative.

Why Balti is a Film to Watch

With Shane Nigam’s 25th film milestone, the presence of celebrated names like Selvaraghavan and Shanthnu Bhagyaraj, and Alphonse Puthren’s surprise acting debut, Balti has already become one of the most awaited Malayalam releases. Its strong kabaddi backdrop, combined with action and emotional layers, promises to deliver a powerful sports drama for South Indian cinema.