Kalliyankattu Neeli (1979)
A landmark of Malayalam horror cinema rooted in Kerala's haunting folk mythology of the spirit Neeli.
Kalliyankattu Neeli - Movie Information
- Original Title: കള്ളിയങ്കാട്ട് നീലി
- Release Year: 1979
- Directed by: M. Krishnan Nair
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Horror
- Runtime: 1h 52m
- Original Language: Malayalam
- Spoken Languages: Malayalam
- Release Date (Theatrical): February 9, 1979 (India - A)
- Production Companies: Sunitha Productions
- Production Countries: India
Kalliyankattu Neeli - Plot
A young man rescues a woman from drowning. However, he soon discovers to his surprise that the woman has astounding supernatural powers that she never revealed before.
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Kalliyankattu Neeli - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- M. Krishnan Nair
Main Cast
- Jayabharathi
- Madhu
- Sudheer
- Jagathy Sreekumar
- Manavalan Joseph
- Praveena Bhagyaraj
- Mancheri Chandran
- Adoor Bhavani
- Aryad Gopalakrishnan
- Noohu
Writers
- Jagathy N K Achari
Producers
- M. Mani
Kalliyankattu Neeli - FAQs
What is Kalliyankattu Neeli about?
Kalliyankattu Neeli follows a young man who saves a mysterious woman from drowning, only to gradually uncover that she possesses extraordinary supernatural powers she had carefully concealed. The film blends folk horror with suspense, drawing on Kerala's rich tradition of spirit mythology to deliver its chilling story.
Is Kalliyankattu Neeli based on a true story or legend?
The film draws from Kerala's deep-rooted folklore surrounding Neeli, a well-known spirit figure in Malayalam folk tradition. While not based on a specific true event, the story is firmly rooted in regional ghost mythology, giving it an authenticity that resonated strongly with Malayalam-speaking audiences.
Where can you stream Kalliyankattu Neeli?
You can stream Kalliyankattu Neeli on Eros Now Select, available as an Apple TV Channel. It's a great way to revisit this classic piece of Malayalam horror cinema from the comfort of your home.
Who plays Neeli in Kalliyankattu Neeli?
Jayabharathi plays the dual role of Latha and the supernatural entity Kalliyankattu Neeli. Her performance is widely regarded as one of the most memorable in Malayalam horror, bringing both vulnerability and an otherworldly menace to the character in a way that left a lasting impression on audiences.
Who directed Kalliyankattu Neeli and who stars in it?
The film was directed by M. Krishnan Nair. The lead cast features Jayabharathi and Madhu in the central roles, supported by Jagathy Sreekumar, Sudheer, Manavalan Joseph, Praveena Bhagyaraj, and Adoor Bhavani, among others.
Is Kalliyankattu Neeli worth watching today?
Absolutely. Kalliyankattu Neeli is considered a landmark in Malayalam horror cinema. Its atmospheric storytelling, strong performances — especially Jayabharathi's — and its grounding in authentic Kerala folklore make it a compelling watch even decades after its release, particularly for fans of classic South Indian horror.
What is the significance of the Neeli character in Kerala folklore?
Neeli is one of the most iconic spirit figures in Kerala's folk tradition — a female ghost associated with water and tragedy. The legend has inspired numerous films, stories, and oral traditions across generations. Kalliyankattu Neeli is one of the earliest and most celebrated cinematic interpretations of this enduring myth.
What are some films similar to Kalliyankattu Neeli?
If you enjoyed Kalliyankattu Neeli, you might also like Nightbreed (1990), Spring (2014), and Never Let Go (2024) — films that similarly blend supernatural elements with emotional human stories. For more Malayalam horror, exploring other classic regional ghost films from the same era is well worth your time.
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