This Christmas is going to be a big treat for cinema lovers in south India as several films are gearing up for release.

With the year coming to an end, there has been a rush to release many films before the new year kicks off.

Let's take a look at the list of films releasing for Christmas 2013 in south Indian markets.

Hindi Releases

Dhoom 3

Aamir Khan's "Dhoom 3" is all set to hit the screens on 20 December to cash in on the long Christmas holidays.

Besides northern circuits, the film is also getting ready for a massive release in southern markets.

The Telugu and Tamil version of "Dhoom 3" will hit the screens simultaneously with the Hindi version.

The film, directed by Vijay Krishna Acharya, has Aamir Khan, Katrina Kaif, Abhishek Bachchan and Uday Chopra in pivotal roles.

"Dhoom 3" is the third installment in the immensely popular "Dhoom" franchise.

Tamil Releases

Biriyani

Karthi's "Biriyani" is gearing up for a release on 20 December.

The black-comedy thriller is one of the most-awaited Tamil films of 2013. Expectations are quite high as the film is directed by Venkat Prabhu who has a good track record of hit films.

Karthi has been going through a rough phase as the actor has faced three back-to-back flops. However, "Biriyani" is expected to resurrect his sluggish career.

The film has Hansika Motwani playing the female lead. Premgi Amaren appears in a significant role.

The dubbed version of "Biriyani" in Telugu will also release with the Tamil version on 20 December.

Endrendrum Punnagai

Jiiva's "Endrendrum Punnagai" will clash with "Biriyani" and "Dhoom 3" in Tamil Nadu.

The romantic entertainer, directed by Mueenuddin Ahmed, has Trisha, Santhanam, Vinay and Andrea Jeremiah in supporting roles.

"Endrendrum Punnagai" will be Jiiva's second release after "David" this year. David failed to set the cash registers ringing and it remains to be seen how "Endrendrum Punnagai" fares at the box office.

Thalaimuraigal

Director Balu Mahendra's upcoming film "Thalaimuraigal" is also set to release on 20 December.

The Tamil film stars Sashikumar, Ramya and Master Karthik in important roles. Director Balu Mahendra has played a pivotal role in the film. Actor-cum-director Sasikumar, who has produced "Thalaimuraigal", has also done a cameo in the film.

Madhayanai Kootam

This thriller flick, directed by debutant Vikram Sugumaran, has newcomer Kathir as the main lead.

The film's trailer has already generated a lot of buzz among fans. It is produced by music composer GV Prakash.

"Madhayanai" Kootam will hit the screens on 25 December.

Telugu Films

Prathinidhi

The film will release either on 19 or 21 December, according to Andhraboxoffice.

Directed by debutant Prashanth Mandava, "Prathinidhi" has Telugu actor Nara Rohith and Shubra Aiyappa in lead roles.

D for Dopidi

The film, which releases on 25 December, stars Varun Sandesh, Sundeep Kishen, Naveen, Rakesh and Melanie Kannokada in main roles.

"D for Dopidi" is directed by Siraj Kalla and the film is produced by Raj Nidimoru and Krishna DK of "Go Goa Gone" fame.

Uyyala Jampaala

Hindi television actress Avika Gor, known for her role as Anandi in "Balika Vadhu", is making her debut in Telugu film "Uyyala Jampaala".

Raj Tarun is playing the male lead role in the film, which is set to hit screens on 25 December.

The film's teaser, which was released some time ago, has received positive feedback from viewers.

"Uyyala Jampaala" is directed by debutante Virinchi Varma. The film is jointly produced by actor Nagarjuna and P Ram Mohan.

Malayalam Films

Mohanlal-Meena's "Drisyam" will release on 19 December, while Fahadh Fassil and Amala Paul's "Oru Indian Pranayakatha" will hit screens on 20 December.

Lal Jose's "7 Sundara Rathrikal", starring Dileep and Rima Kallingal, will arrive in theatres on 21 December.

Kannada Films

Golden Star Ganesh and Amoolya's "Shravani Subramanya" will reportedly be released on 20 December 2013.

The romantic comedy entertainer is directed by Manju Swaraj.

Besides "Shravani Subramanya", Kannada films including "Gaali" and "Ayodhyapuram" are also expected to hit screens on 20 December.