The Malayalam film industry is currently witnessing a heated controversy surrounding actor Unni Mukundan, with his former manager, Vipin Kumar, leveling serious allegations against him. These accusations range from physical assault and verbal abuse to claims of professional frustration stemming from a perceived lack of successful projects.

Vipin Kumar, who says he worked with Unni Mukundan for six years, has alleged that the actor assaulted him at his apartment complex in Kakkanad, Ernakulam on May 26. According to Vipin, the altercation was triggered by a social media post where he praised Tovino Thomas's latest film, Narivetta. Vipin claims that Unni Mukundan took offense to this, leading to a heated argument and subsequent physical assault. He states that Unni Mukundan hit him, damaging his sunglasses, and used abusive language. Furthermore, Vipin alleges that Unni Mukundan threatened to kill him.

In an interview with Asianet News, Vipin claimed that Unni Mukundan has been mentally unstable and professionally frustrated because of the lukewarm reception to his recent film, Get-Set Baby, and a failed directorial debut project. He suggests that this frustration has contributed to the actor's alleged aggressive behavior.

Unni Mukundan has vehemently denied all allegations of physical assault. In a detailed statement posted on social media, he accused Vipin Kumar of spreading lies and gossip about him and attempting to tarnish his image within the film industry. Unni Mukundan asserts that Vipin was never officially his manager, but rather a Public Relations Officer (PRO). He claims that Vipin misused his access to Unni's personal data and interfered in his professional relationships, even going so far as to contact a female actor on Unni's behalf, asking her to marry him, which led to a major personal conflict.

Unni Mukundan has also filed a police complaint, alleging that he has been receiving death threats and that there is a conspiracy to defame him. He stated that he received a call two weeks prior, advising him to be wary of Vipin and warning him that women might file false complaints against him. He has urged the authorities to investigate the matter thoroughly and has expressed his faith in the legal process, stating that the truth will prevail.

Adding another layer to the controversy, Unni Mukundan has shared a WhatsApp conversation with Tovino Thomas, seemingly to dispel rumors of a rift between the two actors. This move came after Vipin Kumar's allegations that the assault was triggered by his praise for Tovino's film, suggesting a rivalry between the two actors.

The Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) and the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) have both stepped in to mediate the dispute between Unni Mukundan and Vipin Kumar. These organizations are attempting to resolve the issue through discussions and negotiations.

As of today, May 30, 2025, the controversy remains unresolved, with both parties sticking to their respective versions of events. The police are investigating the allegations, and the film industry is closely watching the developments. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for both Unni Mukundan and Vipin Kumar, as well as the broader Malayalam film industry.