How Malayalam Superstar Mohanlal's Failed Spice Venture Reveals His Outlook on Wealth

Business Setback

Malayalam cinema icon Mohanlal once ventured into the food products market with a brand called Mohanlal's Taste Buds, selling curry masala, spices, condiments, and pickles. The superstar entered this sector after a close associate in Dubai suggested the idea, noting that Kerala is famous for spices and pointing to singer Asha Bhosle's restaurant there as inspiration. Mohanlal later joked to his longtime financial manager that his only prior experience with food was eating masala dosa at a Coffee House.

The Acquisition

When the spice brand struggled and faced closure, the Eastern Group stepped in and bought it. The business venture ultimately ended in a financial loss, but the brand still held enough worth for another company to acquire it. Financial manager Sanil Kumar noted that an acquiring firm might have multiple motives for such a deal, including removing a competitor from the market, and this buyout cleared the accumulated financial deficits up to that moment.

Money and Mindset

Sanil Kumar, a Chartered Accountant who has handled the finances of both Mohanlal and Mammootty for over thirty years, revealed that monetary gain is not the actor's primary motivation. The Dadasaheb Phalke Awardee does not even carry a wallet and likely never checks whether his business projects make a profit or a loss. The financial manager described him as a passionate person who cares deeply about food and hospitality, often entering ventures simply because he finds it difficult to turn down friends or associates.

Upcoming Projects

Outside of business, Mohanlal continues to see massive box office success in films. His recent lead role in director Jeethu Joseph's movie pulled in Rs 239.83 crore worldwide according to tracking data from Sacnilk. Fans will next see the actor on the big screen in Athimanoharam, directed by Tharun Moorthy.

Context

Celebrity endorsements and business investments in food, lifestyle, and consumer goods are common paths for film stars looking to expand their income beyond acting. While some celebrity ventures turn into major commercial successes, others face tough market competition and eventually get sold or shut down. For top actors with deep financial cushions, these commercial experiments are often driven by personal interests rather than pure profit motives.