MUMBAI: Zee5, is making its much-anticipated Kannada original debut with Ayyana Mane—a gripping supernatural crime drama that unravels dark family secrets hidden behind ancestral doors.
Directed by Ramesh Indira and produced by Shruthi Naidu Productions, the seven-episode mini-series stars Kushee Ravi, Akshya Nayak, and Manasi Sudheer. Set in the 1990s in the mist-laden hills of Chikmagalur, the story follows Jaji (played by Ravi), a newlywed bride who enters her husband’s ancestral home, unaware of the chilling history that awaits her.
The Ayyana Mane household has seen three mysterious deaths—each one a daughter-in-law, each one linked to the family’s powerful deity, Kondayya. When Jaji arrives, what begins as a hopeful new chapter soon turns into a descent into fear, where whispers of curses and eerie coincidences blur the line between reality and superstition. With the help of the loyal maid Taayavva and police officer Mahanthesh, Jaji begins to piece together a horrifying puzzle—one that might cost her life.
Zee5 spokesperson shared, “Kannada cinema has a rich legacy of storytelling, with audiences deeply connected to stories that blend culture, mystery, and emotion. Ayyana Mane is a perfect example of this—a crime drama infused with supernatural suspense, set in the breathtaking yet enigmatic town of Chikmagalur, where mist-covered hills and age-old traditions create the perfect backdrop for an eerie mystery. The show’s authentic locations, high-tech visuals, and immersive storytelling bring the haunting atmosphere to life, making it a truly amazing experience. We’re excited to expand our regional content slate with such interesting shows and Ayyana Mane is just the beginning of what’s to come for Kannada viewers on Zee5.”
Director Indira stated, “With Ayyana Mane, I wanted to create more than just a mystery; I wanted to take the audience on a journey where fear, faith, and family secrets intertwine. This story is deeply rooted in Kannada culture, exploring the weight of traditions, the power of belief, and the darkness that sometimes hides within the familiar. The eerie '90s setting adds to the tension, making the house feel like a character with secrets. Working with such a talented cast, especially Ravi, Nayak, Sudheer and producer Shruti Janardhana Naidu, who has brought this vision to life in the most haunting way. I hope Ayyana Mane keeps viewers on the edge of their seats and makes them question how much of what we fear is real and how much is created by those around us.”
Ravi reflected, “Stepping into Jaji’s world felt like walking into a beautifully woven nightmare—one where every corner hides a secret, and every shadow whispers a warning! She starts off as an innocent, loving wife, deeply respectful of traditions, but as eerie events unfold, her quiet curiosity becomes her greatest strength—and possibly her biggest danger. Playing her was an intense experience, as she’s caught between fear, faith, and the desperate need to survive. Ayyana Mane isn’t just a mystery; it’s an emotional rollercoaster, and I can’t wait for audiences to experience its chilling secrets firsthand!”
