The character Chacko Mash was based on four real-life characters Bhadran knew from his life, one was his own father who used to compare him with other kids, and the other three were his school teachers. Bhadran wanted Thilakan to play the role, but it was difficult to hire him as they were not in good terms after their last film "Idanazhiyil Oru Kaalocha" (1987), since the two had a verbal dispute during the film's dubbing process, as Bhadran recalls, they came close to hitting each other. "Spadikam" was written after three to four years after this incident. There were suggestions from the film crew to cast Nedumudi Venu for the role (who was later cast in another role). According to Bhadran, Thilakan acknowledged that it was a mistake from his part and they reconciled, thus he was able to cast him. Thilakan's son Shammi Thilakan later said that he was instrumental in Thilakan's casting, Bhadran used to make unsuccessful visits to see Thilakan while he was in hospital, but was not permitted by Thilakan. Shammi then acted as an agent for Bhadran to present him the story of "Spadikam" while he was in a good mood.