Rekhachithram OTT Release: Is Malayalam Movie Based On Sister Abhaya Case? Here's The Truth

Is Rekhachithram based on true events? Kerala has been marred by a series of scandals involving nuns, clergy and moral dilemmas that have tested the very foundations of faith. One of the most infamous cases to have rocked the state is the Sister Abhaya case, a chilling tale of a young nun whose death was initially dismissed as a suicide, only to be later revealed as a murder, shrouded in a web of deceit and conspiracy. The case, which spanned decades, was marked by cover-ups, power struggles, and a desperate quest for justice, leaving an indelible mark on the state's psyche.

Is Rekhachithram based on true events?

Given the eerie parallels between the Sister Abhaya case and the film Rekhachithram, it is impossible to ignore the possibility that the film may have drawn inspiration from this real-life tragedy. The film's portrayal of a police officer, who is relentless in his pursuit of truth, bears a striking resemblance to the real-life officers who tirelessly pursued justice in cases shrouded in conspiracy and deceit. Similarly, the nun's quiet suffering in the film echoes the struggles of countless women who have been torn between their faith and survival in a world that demands their silence.

About the movie: Rekhachithram, a gripping Indian Malayalam-language mystery crime thriller film, has taken the cinematic world by storm. Directed by Jofin T. Chacko and scripted by John Manthrikal, based on a story by Ramu Sunil, the film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Asif Ali, Anaswara Rajan, Mammootty, Manoj K. Jayan, Siddique, Jagadish, Saikumar, Harisree Ashokan, and Indrans. 

The narrative unfolds in Malakkappara, where Vivek, played by Asif Ali, assumes the role of SHO and delves into the mysterious suicide case of Rajendran, who had confessed to a crime committed years ago. As the investigation progresses, it leads to the disappearance of a young girl from the filming location of director Bharathan's 1985 film, Kathodu Kathoram. Produced by Kavya Film Company and Ann Mega Media, Rekhachithram commenced filming on May 3, 2024, and wrapped up on July 15, 2024. 

The film's title was officially announced on August 13, 2024. The captivating soundtrack and score were composed by Mujeeb Majeed, with Shameer Muhammed handling the editing and Appu Prabhakar expertly capturing the visuals. Following its theatrical release on January 9, 2025, Rekhachithram garnered widespread acclaim from critics and emerged as the top-grossing Malayalam film of the year, amassing an impressive ₹55 crore worldwide.