Manu Antony expresses gratitude to Joju George: Says actor elevated ‘Aja: Sundari’ with his performance

In a glowing tribute shared on March 12, 2026, debutant director Manu Antony expressed his profound gratitude to powerhouse actor Joju George for his transformative performance in the upcoming Malayalam film 'Aja: Sundari.' Antony, a celebrated editor making his directorial transition, revealed that Joju's portrayal of the protagonist, Reji, breathed life into the character in ways the writing team never imagined. Taking to his Instagram page to pen a post of appreciation, the director wrote, "When I finished writing the script of 'Aja: Sundari', the main character, Reji, was someone filled with many layers and emotions. Dear Joju Chettan, the character went far beyond what we had written only because of you." He went on to add,"I'm very thankfull to Joju Chettan for surprising us with your presence and performance. It was an honor to have you with us. Many more great roles are waiting for you ! @jojugeorgeactorofficial @opmcinemas #ajasundhari."It may be recalled that the unit had only recently announced that the shooting for the film had been wrapped up.Aashiq Abu, who has produced the film and has also been its cinematographer, took to his Instagram page to thank everybody who had worked on the film. Aashiq Abu wrote, "Thank you everyone who stood by this cinema. @getmanuantony's debut Aja:Sundari coming soon to cinemas."The film has triggered huge interest in fans and film buffs for a number of reasons.Firstly, the film will mark the directorial debut of Manu Antony, who is known for his skills as an editor. Manu Antony is best known for having edited the superhit action thriller 'Pani', in which Joju George played the lead.In October last year, the makers of the film put out a picture of the core team that was working on this film and wrote, "Sun, sweat, smiles - and a shared dream. A @getmanuantony mission."'Aja: Sundari', which has a fantastic star cast, boasts of an equally brilliant technical team. The film, which has been written, edited and directed by Manu Antony himself, has been produced by Aashiq Abu, who has also doubled up as the film's cinematographer.Geethartha AR has co-written this script with additional screenplay by Saneth Radhakrishnan. Along with Aashiq Abu, Jaison Francis too has co-produced this film, which is being presented by popular production house OPM Cinemas.Music for 'Aja: Sundari' has been scored by Drumyuga while production design has been taken care of by Ajayan Challissery. Art direction is by Midhun Challissery.Costumes for the film are by Mashar Hamza. The action sequences in the film have been choreographed by Robin.