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Malayalam comedy movies have long been a go-to for delivering a perfect balance of sharp wit and lighthearted fun. These films provide a refreshing escape into the world of humor and satire. Whether you’re a fan of classic hits or modern-day comedies, this list that I curated will take you through some of the best Malayalam films guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and lighten the mood.

1.Punjabi House (1998)

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Have you made plans to revisit Punjabi House? Let me assure you that you’re in for a real treat. Punjabi House is one of those Malayalam comedy movies that only gets better with time. I first watched it as a kid, and even now, it never fails to make me laugh. The humor is timeless, and the iconic jokes have stayed with me—and countless others—through the years. Characters like Ramanan and his famous “Mothalali” remain etched in the collective memory of Malayalees, delivering some of the finest comedic moments in Malayalam cinema. It’s a classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.

2. CID Moosa (2003)

Watch on: MX Player, JioCinema

Watching CID Moosa feels like stepping into a live-action cartoon, in the best possible way. I first watched it when I was just seven years old, but what makes it truly special is how it appeals to all ages. The humor is sharp, the jokes perfectly timed, making even adults laugh out loud. The film follows Sahadevan, an ordinary guy who, through a series of hilarious twists, becomes a CID officer. His action-packed yet comedic journey as he takes on the bad guys delivers non-stop laughs, making CID Moosa a must-watch for anyone looking for classic Malayalam comedy.

3. Kalyanaraman (2002)

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There’s something about early 2000s Malayalam comedies like Kalyanaraman that hits different even today. Maybe it’s the nostalgia, or maybe it’s the simplicity of the humor that still lands perfectly. Kalyanaraman is one of those films that instantly transports you back to a time when comedy didn’t rely on over-the-top antics but on situational hilarity and quirky characters. The film revolves around Ramankutty, a wedding caterer whose misadventures and awkward moments are pure gold. It will always top the chart for best Malayalam comedy movies

4.Nadodikaatu (1987)

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Nadodikaatu marks the beginning of the legendary journey of Dasan and Vijayan, portrayed by Mohanlal and Sreenivasan. This first installment introduces us to two ordinary men striving for a better financial future. Their mix of naivety, playful bickering, and earnest desperation creates a perfect recipe for comedy. As the funniest of the Dasan-Vijayan trilogy, Nadodikaatu delivers humor that’s as timeless as it is entertaining. The iconic duo’s candid charm and hilarious escapades are so endearing that they remain a beloved part of Malayalam cinema, effortlessly bringing smiles even today.

5.Minnaram (1994)

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Priyadarshan always knows how to make movies that make Malayalees laugh. He is the flagbearer of Malayalam comedy movies. His film Minnaram, starring Shobana and Mohanlal (an iconic on-screen pairing!), is a movie that I find extremely funny. On a sporadic day, Neena (played by Shobhana) comes to Bobby’s house with a baby girl and claims that Bobby is her child’s father. Bobby and Neena used to be in a relationship during their college days but for inexplicable reasons, they never saw each other until Neena’s appearance at Bobby’s house with a child. Bobby’s hilarious struggle to convince everyone that he is not the child’s father is what makes up for most of the humor.

6. My Boss (2012)

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In My Boss, Priya hatches a plan to secure her stay in India by faking a marriage with her subordinate, Manu. To make their ruse more convincing, Manu proposes they head to his home in Kerala, setting the stage for a hilarious adventure. The film truly shines with the exceptional chemistry and impeccable comic timing between Mamta and Dileep. Their dynamic performances make My Boss one of those Malayalam comedy movies that’s a complete joyride, delivering laughs and entertainment from start to finish.

7. Chattambinaadu (2009)

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In Chattambinaadu, the true standout for best comedy in Malayalam movies is Suraj Venjaramoodu with his unforgettable role as Dashamoolam Damu. His portrayal is a masterclass in humor, showcasing some of the most memorable comedic moments in Malayalam cinema. Suraj’s improvisation and impeccable timing make Dashamoolam Damu one of the funniest characters ever created. Alongside Damu, Mammootty’s Kannada accent adds another delightful layer of comedy. Despite the film’s array of humorous characters, Dashamoolam Damu remains the reigning king of comedy, cementing his place in the annals of the best comedy in Malayalam movies.

8. Vellimoonga (2014)

Watch on: Hotstar

Politics holds a special place in the hearts of many Malayalis, and Vellimoonga offers a sharp, sarcastic commentary on this very topic. The film delves into the life of Mamachan, a local politician with grand aspirations. As Mamachan navigates the challenges of climbing the political ladder, the film cleverly exposes the quirks and absurdities of the political world through its humor. Vellimoonga emerged as a sleeper hit, celebrated for its refreshing and witty take on political dynamics.

9. Ramji Rao Speaking (1989)

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Ramji Rao Speaking is a timeless Malayalam comedy classic that has consistently tickled the funny bones of audiences for decades. Directed by the talented duo Siddique-Lal, this 1989 gem is a perfect blend of situational humor and witty dialogue delivery. The film revolves around three down-on-their-luck friends, Mannar Mathai, Gopalakrishnan, and Balakrishnan, who accidentally find themselves caught up in a web of misunderstandings and mistaken identities. The humor in the film is rooted in the chaos that ensues as they desperately try to navigate through their comically complex situation.

10. In Harihar Nagar (1990)

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Released in 1990 and directed by Siddique-Lal, In Harihar Nagar is a riotous rollercoaster of humor and camaraderie. The story revolves around four close friends, Mahadevan, Govindan Kutty, Appukuttan, and Thomaskutty, who, in pursuit of excitement, inadvertently find themselves entangled in a murder mystery. Their hilarious attempts to solve the case form the crux of the movie.

What sets In Harihar Nagar apart is its unique blend of slapstick comedy, witty wordplay, and impeccable chemistry among the four lead actors – Mukesh, Siddique, Jagadish, and Ashokan. Their comic timing and the film’s peak situations create moments that leave the audience in splits. With its memorable catchphrases and dialogues, In Harihar Nagar has retained its status as a cult classic in the realm of Malayalam comedy.

Image Courtesy: YouTube