‘Welcome to Maula Prison’ Becomes the Talk of the Town
Published on July 8, 2025 at 9:04 AM by Evance Kapito
Within just 14 hours of its release, the film Welcome to Maula Prison has become a sensation across Malawi, rapidly gaining traction on YouTube, where it has already surpassed 300,000 views.
The short film, which explores life behind bars, is not only capturing views but also igniting intense public discussion over its characters and storyline. Viewers are actively engaging in debates around the behavior, morals, and performance of the actors most of whom depict inmates from various backgrounds.
One moment that has stood out online is a brief but powerful line delivered by a Tumbuka-speaking inmate, who exclaims, “Akang’antha kale!” a phrase many have now turned into memes and quotes across social media.
Others have praised the performance of a Burundian character, with comments applauding his convincing portrayal and emotional depth. Comparisons have also emerged between Welcome to Maula Prison and the earlier local hit School Days, with some claiming this new release stands out for its meaningful message and realistic setting.
Although Welcome to Maula Prison had already been screened in select regions of Malawi and even South Africa, many viewers had not yet seen it making its YouTube release highly anticipated.
The film’s sudden rise in popularity signals a growing appetite for authentic, local storytelling that reflects social realities while sparking dialogue across diverse audiences.
