Everything you need to know about ‘Summer in Bethlehem’ part 2

The 1998 release ‘Summer in Bethlehem’ is a fan favourite for numerous reasons, including the star cast and its heartwarming story. Recently, the producer of the film, Siyad Koker confirmed that the movie will be having a second part and he is in discussions with filmmaker Sibi Malayil who helmed the 1998 film. The announcement elated movie lovers for all the right reasons, and it also made them wonder whether the lead actors Suresh Gopi, Jayaram, and Manju Warrier will be reprising the roles, if so who will fill in the shoes of Monayi, since actor Kalabhavan Mani is no more, and the questions goes on.

Here’s what we know about the sequel so far!

Manju Warrier, who played the lead actor in ‘Summer in Bethlehem’ is a part of its sequel too! She played the role of Abhirami in ‘Summer in Bethlehem’, and the character is the soul of the movie. However, as of now, it is unknown whether Suresh Gopi, and Jayaram, who played the other two characters - Dennis and Ravishankar respectively will be part of the film, or not.

Speaking exclusively to Kochi Times, producer Siyad Koker has revealed that the upcoming film is not a continuation of the main film. Hence, the sequel will be handling a different subject. The producer also divulged, “All we have is a small ‘element’ of it, at the moment, on how we should present it.” When asked if Ravisankar will finally get to meet and identify his secret admirer (if you have watched ‘Summer in Bethlehem’, you will get it), the producer stayed tight-lipped, however, added, “Well, I think it is better to leave that thought to the audience till they watch the film, isn’t it?”

It was late Kalabhavan Mani, who played the role of Monayi, a friend of both Dennis and Ravishankar in ‘Summer in Bethlehem’. Monayi was a significant character in the film, and also had many humorous moments, which indeed contributed a lot to making the film joyous. Since Kalabhavan Mani is no more, the makers are looking for talents who could bring the comic touch to the film. “Our future discussions will be dealing with how we can compensate for his absence. We will need a humour character for sure,” the producer told Kochi Times.

Another interesting fact about ‘Summer In Bethlehem’ was its songs. Songs like ‘Ethrayo Janmamayi’, ‘Choolamadichu’, and, ‘Oru Raathri Koodi’ from the film continues to be a favourite for music lovers. It was Gireesh Puthenchery who penned the lyrics and Vidyasagar, who composed the music. The award-winning composer himself will be composing the music for the second part, and hence the audience could expect another musical treat.

Though the makers have announced the second part of the film, it won’t happen this year. Towards the end of this year, they are planning to begin the pre-production works.

All those who have watched the film would be able to recall the magnificent mansion, where ‘Summer In Bethlehem’ was filmed. The mansion and the Bethlehem farm in Ooty are the heart of the film, and the makers have confirmed that if everything goes well, they will be able to shoot in the same location. “We aren’t sure yet whether the house exists as it is. If it does and is available, we will shoot it there. Or else, we will go for another, matching house,” Siyad Koker said in the interview with Kochi Times.