Seven must-watch Malayalam movies to watch on Netflix, JioHotstar, Prime Video and ZEE5 this Onam 2026

Every year, we get new Onam releases, and fans get too excited to watch them on the big screen. Well, this time was no different. From Prithviraj Sukumaran's Khalifa to Nivin Pauly-Mamitha Baiju's Bethlehem Kudumba Unit, the new releases have already taken over the box office and won hearts. But sometimes, families also prefer classic Malayalam movies to spend quality time with friends and family. So, if you are also wondering what to watch this Onam with your family, fret not. We have got you covered.

Onam 2026: Must watch Malayalam movies to stream on OTT

Classmates – JioHotstar

If your idea of an Onam movie night involves old friendships, college memories and a little mystery, Classmates is an easy pick. Directed by Lal Jose, the 2006 film follows a group of college friends who reunite 14 years after graduation. What starts as a nostalgic reunion soon takes a darker turn when an old secret from their college days comes back.


Classmates is streaming on JioHotstar and stars Prithviraj Sukumaran, Kavya Madhavan, Jayasurya, Indrajith and Narain. The film's mix of friendship, romance, politics and mystery continues to make it a favourite. It was a true-blue blockbuster.



Manichitrathazhu – JioHotstar

Want to add some spooky fun to your Onam celebrations? Fazil's Manichitrathazhu should be on your list. The 1993 psychological thriller follows a young couple who move into an ancestral mansion, only to encounter a series of strange incidents connected to an old legend.

Manichitrathazhu is available to stream on JioHotstar, with Shobana, Mohanlal and Suresh Gopi in the lead roles. Shobana's performance as Ganga/Nagavalli remains one of the film's biggest attractions, while Mohanlal's Dr Sunny brings humour and energy to the tense story.

Parava – JioHotstar

For something emotional and visually rich, Parava is worth revisiting. Soubin Shahir's directorial debut follows two young boys, Ichappi and Haseeb, who are fascinated by pigeon racing and dream of winning a local championship.

Parava is streaming on JioHotstar and stars Amal Shah, Govind V Pai and Shane Nigam, with Dulquer Salmaan appearing in a cameo. What begins as a story about two boys and their pigeons gradually opens up into a deeper tale involving family, friendship, loss and revenge.

Thanneer Mathan Dinangal – JioHotstar

If you want something light, funny and easy to watch with the family, Thanneer Mathan Dinangal is a safe bet. The coming-of-age comedy revolves around schoolboy Jaison and his amusing dislike for teacher Ravi Padmanabhan.

Thanneer Mathan Dinangal is available on JioHotstar, starring Mathew Thomas and Vineeth Sreenivasan. From classroom drama to teenage crushes and hilarious misunderstandings, the film brings back the chaos and innocence of school life.



Bethlehem Kudumba Unit – Theatres

If you would rather head out than stay glued to the sofa, Bethlehem Kudumba Unit is currently playing in theatres. Directed by Girish AD, the romantic comedy stars Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju.

The story follows Ashley, who returns home from abroad and unexpectedly crosses paths with her first love, Justin. Bethlehem Kudumba Unit is currently running in theatres, and its Onam release makes it a fitting choice for a family outing. The film also marks another collaboration between Girish AD and Mamitha Baiju after Super Sharanya and Premalu.

Aadu – Oru Bheekara Jeevi Aanu – JioHotstar

Need something completely madcap? Enter Aadu – Oru Bheekara Jeevi Aanu. Directed by Midhun Manuel Thomas, the film is a chaotic comedy involving a group of eccentric characters and, of course, a goat.

Aadu is streaming on JioHotstar and features a large ensemble cast led by Jayasurya. The film pokes fun at the exaggerated heroes and macho image often seen in mainstream cinema. It is the kind of movie that works particularly well when everyone in the room simply wants to laugh.

Premam – JioHotstar

No Malayalam nostalgia list feels complete without Premam. Alphonse Puthren's 2015 romantic drama follows George through three stages of his life as he experiences first love, heartbreak and adulthood.

Premam is available to stream on JioHotstar, starring Nivin Pauly, Sai Pallavi, Madonna Sebastian and Anupama Parameswaran. The film's music by Rajesh Murugesan, memorable characters and coming-of-age story turned it into a cultural phenomenon.

So, whether you want college nostalgia, a psychological thriller, school comedy, romance or an unfiltered laugh riot, this Onam has plenty of Malayalam favourites to revisit. And if the family cannot agree on one, well, there is always room for a movie marathon.