'Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra': Alia Bhatt hails the film's fresh storytelling; calls it a big step in cinema

Bollywood actress Alia Bhatt has joined the chorus of voices celebrating 'Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra', the Kalyani Priyadarshan starrer that has taken the South Indian box office by storm. The film, directed by Dominic Arun and produced by Dulquer Salmaan, has already crossed the Rs 100 crore mark globally, becoming the highest-grossing female-led South film to date.



Taking to her Instagram handle, Alia shared a poster of the film and penned a heartfelt note, “Such a fresh blend of mythic folklore and mystery! So happy to see the love it’s getting. This is a big step in cinema that I will always be eager to show my love and support for.”

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'Lokah' makers apologise to Karnataka, promise to cut 'offensive' dialogue

Akshay Kumar's praise

Alia Bhatt isn’t the only star lending her voice in support. Akshay Kumar also took to social media platform X to celebrate the film and its lead actress.

“Talent runs in the family… suna thaa, ab dekh liya! Hearing lovely things about the brilliant acting chops of @kalyanipriyan, Priyadarshan Sir’s daughter. My best wishes to her and the entire team of #Lokah on their Hindi version release. More power,” he wrote.

A landmark moment for female-led cinema

The Malayalam original of 'Lokah' released on August 28 and has quickly grown into a cultural moment. With Kalyani Priyadarshan in the titular role of Chandra, a vampire-superhero inspired by Kerala folklore, the film’s performance has set a new benchmark for female-centric cinema. Its Hindi version has now opened in theatres, widening its reach across the country.

A stellar ensemble and creative vision of Dominic Arun

Alongside Kalyani, the film stars Naslen and features performances from Chandu Salimkumar and Arun Kurian, with Tamil actor-choreographer Sandy stepping into the antagonist’s role. Actress Santhy Balachandran contributed to the screenplay, lending further depth to the story. Meanwhile, the 'Kalki 2898 AD' director Nag Ashwin had also shared his praise for the film via his Instagram handle.






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