Mahathma

Mahathma

Year: 1996

Runtime: More mins

Language: Malayalam

Director: Shaji Kailas

A 1996 Malayalam action film directed by Shaji Kailas stars Suresh Gopi, Ganesh Kumar, Devan, Rajan P. Dev, Biju Menon and Ramya Krishnan. It chronicles the rise of an underworld don, narrated through flashbacks of the protagonist Devadevan. Though made on a large budget, it failed at the box office and is an adaptation of the 1983 Al Pacino film Scarface.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Mahathma (1996)

Trace every key event in Mahathma (1996) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Devan appears before Justice Varma Commission

Devan chooses to show up in front of the Justice Varma Commission which is investigating the serial blasts and communal riots. He claims to possess solid evidence implicating top politicians and gangsters in these events. However, he is shot point-blank just as he reaches the court premises, leaving him severely wounded.

Court premises
2

Devan is admitted to ICU

After being shot, Devan is moved to the ICU where his memories start to flow back. This marks the beginning of a flashback to his past life as a gangster and criminal. His injuries leave him in aCritical condition but also open a window into his previous events.

Hospital ICU
3

Devan's early days and release from custody

Devan, along with his right-hand man Mustafa, is bailed out by Khan Sahib, a smuggler acting on behalf of Dubai-based crime boss David Abraham. They are provided safe shelter, where Devan meets Nancy, Khan's daughter and an aspiring actress, who quickly falls in love with him.

Khan Sahib's house
4

Rise in the criminal world

Devan and Mustafa engage in smuggling activities for Khan Sahib, gradually expanding their influence. Devan's reputation grows as he becomes a prominent figure in the underworld, and he starts to gain power and respect within the criminal network.

Various locations in India
5

Khan Sahib's betrayal and rise of Devan

Khan Sahib is killed by David Abraham after he suspects him of double-crossing. Devan is then appointed as David's representative in India, cementing his position in the criminal hierarchy. This marks a pivotal shift from subordinate to leader in the underworld.

India
6

Devan's leadership and political conflicts

Devan becomes an undisputed don, expanding his reach across India. During a visit to Kerala, he meets Hari, a youth protesting caste-based discrimination, and supports him. Hari is appointed as Devan's second-in-command, with Devan advising him to abandon his traditional cloth as a move of support.

Kerala
7

Conflict with rivals James Kutty and Reddiar

Drug smuggler James Kutty and Reddiar attempt to eliminate Devan's empire. Despite their efforts, Devan withstands their attacks. Hari assassinates Minister Baba Rahim, Reddiar's son, provoking a league of enemies against Devan.

Various locations
8

David Abraham's alliance with enemies

Losing turf to Devan, David Abraham joins James Kutty and Reddiar to carry out a massive bombing and communal riot to divert public attention. This orchestrated violence is part of their plan to weaken Devan's influence and cover up corruption.

City where blasts occur
9

Mustafa's love and betrayal

Mustafa falls in love with Saraswati, Hari's sister, but their relationship faces opposition due to religious differences. Meanwhile, Hari is used by James Kutty to transport explosives, leading to increased violence and chaos. Mustafa's love story adds personal conflict to the crime saga.

Various locations
10

Devan faces downfall and revenge

Devan's empire crumbles as his name is tarnished with the serial blasts. After killing David Abraham and James Kutty, he is shocked to see Hari, who is revealed to be behind the blasts. Hari then points his gun at Devan, but Devan manages to survive and escape.

City and various hideouts
11

Devan's confrontation with Hari in the hospital

Devan recovers from his injuries in the hospital, where Justice Varma visits him. Hari enters with the intent to shoot Devan, but Devan narrowly escapes. The confrontation underscores the ongoing feud and unresolved conflicts from his past.

Hospital ward
12

Final showdown and detonation

Devan, followed by Hari, escapes into a car, which is then locked by Koshy, Devan's attorney. Koshy remotely detonates a bomb planted inside, resulting in Hari's death. This brutal climax marks the end of their violent feud and Devan's life-altering journey.

City street

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 05:16

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Unlock the Full Story of Mahathma

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Mahathma Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Mahathma, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Mahathma Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Mahathma

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Mahathma

Mahathma Spoiler-Free Summary

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Mahathma Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Mahathma

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