JioHotstar is ready to light up the festive weekend with the digital premiere of the Malayalam blockbuster Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra. The highly acclaimed fantasy-action film, starring Kalyani Priyadarshan, will begin streaming exclusively on JioHotstar from October 31, 2025, in seven languages—Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, Kannada, Bengali, and Marathi.
A record-setting theatrical journey
Directed by Dominic Arun and produced by Dulquer Salmaan under the Wayfarer Films banner, Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra became a cultural phenomenon upon release on August 28, 2025. Within weeks, the film grossed over ₹300 crore worldwide, making it Kerala’s most successful film ever and one of India’s highest-grossing regional hits.
The movie’s global success was fueled by its fresh storytelling, powerful lead performance, and cutting-edge visual effects that blended Indian mythology with superhero world-building.
What to expect from the JioHotstar release
The story revolves around Chandra, portrayed by Kalyani Priyadarshan, a woman shrouded in mystery who is drawn from Sweden to Karnataka by an ancient spiritual order led by Moothon, The Elder. Her peaceful life in Bengaluru takes a dark turn when she becomes trapped in a human organ-trafficking ring. As danger mounts, Chandra’s true identity as the mythical spirit Kalliyankattu Neeli is unveiled.
The film’s soundtrack by Jakes Bejoy and cinematography by Nimish Ravi have been widely praised for creating an ethereal yet emotional experience. Audiences call it a “perfect fusion of ancient legend and modern heroism”.
Why JioHotstar matters in this digital release
With Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra streaming exclusively, JioHotstar reinforces its growing reputation as India’s leading destination for regional blockbusters. The platform’s strategic move to release major South Indian hits in multiple languages reflects its effort to create a pan-India viewing experience.
Media analysts see this as a bold expansion by JioHotstar, following its integration of high-quality Malayalam and Tamil cinema releases that draw massive national and international audiences.
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The Lokah universe expands further
The makers have already teased the sequel, Lokah Chapter 2, featuring Tovino Thomas as Chaatan, a mystical goblin-warrior destined to collide with Chandra’s world. Dulquer Salmaan, who appears as Charlie—a shadowy protector—will reprise his role. The teaser “When Legends Chill: Michael x Charlie” has generated tremendous online excitement.
From box office success to OTT dominance, Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra is building a cinematic universe that could become Malayalam cinema’s answer to global superhero franchises.