Alappuzha Gymkhana, directed and co-written by Khalid Rahman, proved a sleeper hit after its theatrical release on April 10, 2025. The film blends sports drama with comedy, following a ragtag group of college hopefuls who train under a tough coach to win a district boxing championship and secure seats through the sports quota. Naslen leads as Jojo Johnson, while Lukman Avaran portrays Antony Joshua, their hard-nosed trainer
The movie’s strong word-of-mouth and positive critical reception drove impressive box office returns, grossing over ₹56 crore within its first two weeks. Critics praised its fresh take on the underdog genre, highlighting Khalid Rahman’s deft direction and Jimshi Khalid’s dynamic cinematography that captures both the grit of the ring and the camaraderie of small-town life
Fans keen to rewatch the film or those who missed it in cinemas can now catch Alappuzha Gymkhana on SonyLIV starting June 5. The streaming rollout includes the original Malayalam track and dubbed versions in Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, and Telugu, ensuring accessibility for a pan-Indian audience. Subscribers can download or stream the 139-minute feature at no extra cost beyond their existing subscription plan
Beyond its commercial success, Alappuzha Gymkhana has sparked conversations about sports infrastructure in smaller towns and the role of passion over pedigree. The ensemble cast—including Ganapathi S. Poduval, Sandeep Pradeep, and Anagha Ravi—brings authenticity to their roles as underdog athletes, supported by a spirited score from Vishnu Vijay. The film’s balance of humor and heartfelt moments underlines its appeal across age groups and regions
As the film becomes available on OTT, audiences can look forward to bonus content such as behind-the-scenes featurettes and cast interviews that explore the making of the film, training montages, and the director’s creative vision. SonyLIV is also expected to host a virtual watch party event, allowing fans to interact with the cast and crew in real time.
In conclusion, Alappuzha Gymkhana’s transition from a surprising theatrical hit to a widely accessible streaming feature underscores the changing landscape of Indian cinema, where regional films achieve national visibility through digital platforms. With its mix of sports action, local flavor, and universal themes of friendship and perseverance, the film is poised to find an even broader audience when it premieres on SonyLIV on June 5
