Director Dominic Arun has opened up about the overwhelming success of his debut film Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra, which has emerged as one of 2025’s biggest Malayalam hits. In a recent interview with Mathrubhumi on December 22, 2025, Arun shared his gratitude for the film’s box office performance, revealing it crossed ₹100 crore worldwide within weeks of its November release. “The audience response has been beyond my dreams—this is a victory for storytelling rooted in our culture,” he said, crediting the film’s blend of mythology, suspense, and visual spectacle for its pan-India appeal on JioHotstar.
Box Office Breakdown: A Streaming and Theatrical Triumph
Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra, starring Prithviraj Sukumaran in a dual role as a modern archaeologist and ancient warrior, grossed ₹65 crore in Kerala alone, with strong runs in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and overseas markets. Its JioHotstar premiere post-theatrical window amassed 150 million hours viewed in the first month, positioning it as the platform’s top South original of 2025. Arun noted the film’s VFX-heavy sequences and A.R. Rahman’s score as key draws, saying, “We aimed for global standards while staying true to Malayalam roots—the numbers prove it worked.”
Sequel Scripting Underway: Expanding the Lokah Universe
Arun confirmed active progress on the next installment, tentatively titled Lokah Chapter 2. “Scripting is in full swing—we’re building a larger mythology with new characters and higher stakes,” he teased, hinting at Prithviraj’s return and potential cameos. Produced by the same team, the sequel eyes a 2027 release, aiming to elevate the franchise’s scale with international locations.
Arun’s Vision: Gratitude and Growth
The director, a former assistant to Priyadarshan, reflected on his journey: “From short films to a ₹100 crore debut—it’s humbling.” He thanked fans for making Chandra a trendsetter, paving the way for ambitious Malayalam projects.
A Chapter That Conquered
Dominic Arun’s Lokah success isn’t debut—it’s dawn. As scripting summons sequels, it thunders: Can roots reach realms? His reflective rise affirms yes, scripting a saga where mythology meets milestones in Malayalam cinema’s modern march.
-By Manoj H