Meet Thudarum Antagonist Prakash Varma, Aka 'CI George', The Man Behind Popular Vodafone Zoozoo Ads

Mohanlal’s much-awaited film, Thudarum has been making headlines ever since its release. The film, which was initially released on April 25, 2025, grossed over Rs. 230 crores worldwide. Directed by Tharun Moorthy, Thudarum is still making waves after it made its way to OTT and people are raving about each and every character in the film.

While Mohanlal essayed the role of 'Shanmugham', a.k.a 'Benz', Shobana, who reunited with Mohanlal after 15 years, played the role of his wife, ‘Lalitha’. The film, a gripping murder mystery, revolves around the story of a father, played by Mohanlal, who gets caught in the web of the tragic murder of his son.

Every character in the film, plays an important role, but it is Prakash Varma, who stole the show. Unlike other films of Mohanlal, where he is the center of attention, Thudarum gave a different perspective. As the film ends, people were intrigued by Prakash’s performance as the antagonist, ‘CI George Mathan’.

Prakash’s portrayal of George Mathan surprised everyone and it is the first time that an antagonist got an equal frame and stature as the main lead. Prakash's first appearence on-screen is of a friendly cop, however, it is much later, that we get to see his cruel and ruthless side. Prakash did justice to his layered role in the film and people refused to believe that it is his debut film. Shocked? Let us read on to know more about the man of the hour, Prakash Varma.

Prakash Varma is the nephew of acclaimed actor, Jagannatha Varma

Born in Alappuzha, Kerala, Prakash Varma hails from a family of artists and intellectuals. Not many people know this, but veteran actor, Jagannatha Varma was Prakash’s uncle. Prakash’s father was a Physics professor and his mother was a college principal. It was his uncle, Jagannatha Varma, who ignited his passion for cinema. Prakash would sneak out to film sets without his parent’s knowledge. 

Prakash Varma’s entry into the advertising world

After his graduation, Prakash Varma started working as an assistant director to filmmakers A.K. Lohitthadas and Viji Thampi. However, after three years, he moved to advertising. He started his career as an assistant to ad filmmaker, V.K. Prakash and after three years, Varma and his wife, Sneha Iype established their own production house, Nirvana Films in Bangalore.

Prakash Varma rose to fame with Vodfone’s ZooZoo ads

After launching his own production house, Prakash Varma directed and produced many advertisement campaigns. His campaign for Hutch, which featured a pug, became an instant hit. Do you know the famous ZooZoo ads of Vodafone was his brainchild, which he sketched all by himself. Varma directed campaigns for some of the most renowned brands around the world, such as iPhone, Netflix, KitKat, Amazon Prime and Bisleri, among others. 

Prakash Varma’s global fame

In 2009, he was also brought on board by Michael Bay’s advertisement film production company to direct commercials. Apart from this, he also directed commercials for Dubai Tourism featuring Bollywood’s superstar Shah Rukh Khan. Not just this, Prakash has also worked with Deepika Padukone and Anushka Sharma. 

Prakash Varma’s spectacular performance in 'Thudarum'

The ace filmmaker made his acting debut in Thudarum, essaying the role of an antagonist, ‘CI George Mathan’. People left the theatres hating his character, but the impact he made on people’s minds was commendable. Each and every frame of Prakash was worth watching. His nuanced performance left a lasting impression on the audience.

As Thudarum’s craze peaks, people cannot stop raving about the maverick, Prakash Varma and his layered role of ‘George Sir’.

Also Read: Preity Zinta Refused A Whopping Fortune, Received Bravery Award, Left Acting At Peak Of Her Career

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