At least 158 ​​people have been killed and over 200 injured in a massive landslide in the hilly areas near Meppadi in Wayanad, Kerala, forcing the Malayalam film industry to postpone major events and film releases planned for this week.

The makers of thriller drama ‘Footage’ directed by Saiju Sreedharan and starring Manju Warrier in the lead role have postponed the release of their film. It will no longer release on its scheduled release date of August 2.

The makers wrote on social media, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Wayanad who are reeling under the torrential rains and landslides. The release of our film footage, which was scheduled for August 2, has been postponed for another day.” The film also stars Vishak Nair and Gayathri Ashok in lead roles.

Additionally, the makers of Tovino Thomas starrer ‘Ajayante Randam Motionam’ have postponed an important announcement related to the film in mourning of the victims of the Wayanad landslide.

Rescheduling the announcement date, the makers wrote on social media on Tuesday, July 30, “In view of the major disaster that has happened in Wayanad, as a mark of condolence, our film update announcement, which was scheduled at 5:00 PM today, has been postponed to another day.”

The organisers of the 16th International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala (IDSFFK) also postponed all official events on Tuesday. While scheduled events such as seminars, meet the director sessions, one-on-one discussions and interactions were cancelled, film screenings continued as planned. The winners will be given their awards, but there will be no official ceremony.

According to OnmanoramaThe Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) has cancelled the press conference for the upcoming Entertainment Awards night, which was scheduled to be held in collaboration with the Kerala Producers Association.

Meanwhile, actors such as Mammootty, Mohanlal, Kamal Haasan and Rashmika Mandanna have offered condolences to the victims of the tragedy. Rashmika wrote on Instagram, “I saw this and it breaks my heart. I’m so sad. This is horrible! Prayers for the families.”

Actor Vijay wrote on Instagram, “Deeply saddened to hear the tragic news of the landslide in Wayanad, Kerala. My condolences and prayers are with the bereaved families. Request the government authorities to provide necessary rescue and relief measures to the affected on a war footing.”

In Wayanad, 45 relief camps have been set upThere is a provision for accommodation of 3,069 people. Videos and pictures on social media show uprooted trees and damaged houses at many places in the district. This area is known for its beautiful places and tea gardens.