Table of Contents
Introduction
Lokah – Chapter 1: Chandra is a 2025 Malayalam-language fantasy superhero film that has taken Indian cinema by storm. Directed by Dominic Arun and produced by Dulquer Salmaan under Wayfarer Films, this movie introduces audiences to the Wayfarer Cinematic Universe (WCU). With its mix of folklore, mythology, and modern superhero elements, Lokah has not only broken regional barriers but also created waves in the pan-Indian market.
Lokah – Chapter 1: Chandra Movie Overview
- Movie Title: Lokah – Chapter 1: Chandra
- Language: Malayalam (dubbed in Hindi and other Indian languages)
- Genre: Fantasy | Superhero | Action
- Director: Dominic Arun
- Producer: Dulquer Salmaan
- Writers: Dominic Arun, Santhy Balachandran
- Cinematography: Nimish Ravi
- Music: Jakes Bejoy
- Production House: Wayfarer Films
- Release Date: 28 August 2025
- Runtime: 149 minutes
Storyline & Plot
The film tells the story of Chandra / Kalliyankattu Neeli (played by Kalyani Priyadarshan), a mystical Yakshi with supernatural powers. She has lived for centuries, hidden in the shadows, until destiny brings her into contact with Sunny (Naslen), a modern-day youth.
As Chandra learns to balance her supernatural identity with the human world, she faces a deadly enemy — Inspector Nachiyappa Gowda (Sandy), who runs an organ trafficking syndicate. The film beautifully blends Kerala’s folklore with superhero storytelling, making Chandra the first female superhero in Malayalam cinema.
Cast & Characters
- Kalyani Priyadarshan as Chandra / Kalliyankattu Neeli
- Naslen as Sunny
- Sandy as Inspector Nachiyappa Gowda
- Supporting performances by talented Malayalam actors
Critical Reception
Lokah – Chapter 1: Chandra has been widely praised by critics across India:
- ⭐ The Indian Express: 4/5 – “Visually stunning and emotionally layered.”
- ⭐ Gulf News: 4/5 – “A cultural and cinematic triumph.”
- ⭐ The New Indian Express: 3.5/5 – “Bold, imperfect but unforgettable.”
- ⭐ The Hindu: Applauded the world-building and Kalyani’s performance.
Top Bollywood stars like Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Alia Bhatt, and Priyanka Chopra praised the film, calling it a game-changer for Indian superhero films.
Box Office Collection
- Kerala (Week 1): ₹50 crore+
- Worldwide (Week 1): ₹100 crore+
- Day 10 Earnings: ₹9.75 crore approx.
- The film crossed the ₹100 crore club within days, making it one of the biggest Malayalam hits of 2025.
OTT Release Details
While the film is still performing strongly in theatres, the OTT release is expected by late September 2025.
- Expected Platform: Netflix or Amazon Prime Video (to be confirmed)
- Hindi Dubbed Release Date: 4 September 2025
Controversy
The movie faced backlash in Karnataka due to a dialogue by Inspector Gowda’s character, which offended Kannada audiences. The producers quickly issued a public apology and promised changes in future screenings.
Why Lokah – Chapter 1: Chandra is Special
- First Malayalam Female Superhero Movie – A milestone for Indian cinema.
- Folklore Meets Superhero Genre – A rare mix of mythology and modern fantasy.
- Pan-Indian Appeal – Dubbed versions and praise from Bollywood celebrities boosted its national reach.
- Wayfarer Cinematic Universe (WCU) – The foundation for a larger superhero franchise from Mollywood.
Lokah – Chapter 1: Chandra FAQs
1. Who is the lead actress in Lokah Chapter 1?
Kalyani Priyadarshan plays the lead role of Chandra, a supernatural superhero.
2. What is the release date of Lokah Chapter 1?
The film was released on 28 August 2025 in theatres.
3. When is the OTT release of Lokah Chapter 1?
The OTT release is expected in late September 2025.
4. Is Lokah part of a superhero universe?
Yes, it is the first film in the Wayfarer Cinematic Universe (WCU) created by Dulquer Salmaan.
5. How much did Lokah earn at the box office?
It crossed ₹100 crore worldwide within the first week.
Conclusion
Lokah – Chapter 1: Chandra is more than just a film — it’s a cultural phenomenon. With Kalyani Priyadarshan’s powerful performance, Dominic Arun’s bold direction, and Dulquer Salmaan’s vision, the movie has carved a new path for Indian cinema. It combines myth, magic, and modern superhero storytelling, making it a must-watch and a landmark film in 2025.
This is not just a movie — it is the beginning of a new cinematic universe.