Another intriguing aspect revealed in the teaser is that actor Naslen’s character, Sunny, becomes one of the rare individuals privy to Chandra’s superhero identity
Actor Dulquer Salmaan has officially introduced the central characters of Lokah – Chapter 1 – Chandra, Malayalam cinema’s first-ever woman superhero film directed by Dominic Arun. The much-anticipated project, which features actress Kalyani Priyadarshan in the lead, is being produced by Dulquer’s own banner, Wayfarer Films.
Taking to his social media handles on Monday, Dulquer revealed the line-up of characters who will inhabit the film’s unique universe. “Introducing the people of Lokah! @kalyanipriyadarshan as Chandra, @naslenofficial as Sunny, @chanduveeyyy as Venu, @arunthekurian as Naijil & @iamsandy_off as Inspector Nachiappa. Stay tuned for an exciting cinematic experience! #Lokah #theyliveamongus,” he wrote, sparking buzz among fans.
The character reveal has only amplified anticipation, which has been steadily growing since the release of the film’s teaser a few days earlier. The teaser showcases Kalyani Priyadarshan’s role as Chandra, a character endowed with legendary superpowers. Among her abilities are soaring into the air and moving faster than a bullet, feats that underline her extraordinary status. The glimpse also hints at a layered backstory, suggesting Chandra’s origins may be tied to a distant historical era, when horseback warriors defined the battlefield.
Another intriguing aspect revealed in the teaser is that actor Naslen’s character, Sunny, becomes one of the rare individuals privy to Chandra’s superhero identity. Meanwhile, Tamil dance choreographer and actor Sandy steps into the role of Inspector Nachiappa, adding further depth to the cast. Together, these characters build a world that blends myth, mystery, and modern-day spectacle.
The ambitious film is written and directed by Dominic Arun, who has previously carved a niche for himself with unconventional storytelling. Cinematography is being handled by Nimish Ravi, whose visual style promises to lend grandeur to the narrative, while editing is in the hands of Chaman Chakko. Music composer Jakes Bejoy is scoring the soundtrack, expected to carry both high-octane tracks and emotionally resonant themes.
Action, an essential ingredient in any superhero film, is choreographed by internationally acclaimed stunt expert Yannick Ben, ensuring that Lokah delivers world-class sequences. Adding to the creative strength of the project, actor and writer Santhy Balachandran has contributed to the additional screenplay and dramaturgy, enhancing narrative layers. Art direction is managed by Jithu Sebastian, who is expected to bring the mythic and futuristic elements of the film’s world vividly to life.
Costume design plays a crucial role in defining superhero aesthetics, and for Lokah, Melwy J and Archana Rao have been entrusted with crafting looks that merge traditional Indian styles with contemporary sensibilities. The lyrical side of the film will be shaped by Sasikumar, Mu.Ri, and Zeba Tommy, who are penning the songs.
For Dulquer Salmaan and Wayfarer Films, Lokah represents both a creative gamble and a cultural milestone. As Malayalam cinema steps into the superhero genre with its first woman-led project, industry watchers believe it could open doors for more experimental storytelling in regional cinema. The fact that the film is anchored by a female protagonist adds further significance, positioning Kalyani Priyadarshan as the face of a new cinematic frontier.
The release of the teaser has already generated considerable excitement online, with fans applauding the ambition of the project and speculating about its larger narrative arc. With Dulquer himself backing the film as producer and leading its promotions, expectations are high for Lokah to deliver both as a spectacle and as a trailblazer in Indian cinema.
The makers have confirmed that Lokah – Chapter 1 – Chandra is slated to hit the big screens this Onam, promising audiences a festive season marked by both cultural celebration and cinematic innovation.
