Bengaluru, September 3, 2025: What began as a promising box office triumph for Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra soon spiraled into a PR challenge, but the makers of the Malayalam film have responded with speed and tact.
In just under a week since its release, the film has grossed an impressive ₹39.37 crore net in India, cementing its place as a commercial winner. However, as the superhero drama soared in numbers, it also drew flak, particularly from Kannada audiences, for a dialogue deemed derogatory toward women in Bengaluru.
The controversy erupted over a line in the film where a character uses the term “dagar”, a colloquial Kannada slur, to refer to women in the city. Social media users across Karnataka were quick to condemn the portrayal of Bengaluru as a “hub of parties and drugs”, calling it both stereotypical and offensive.
Makers of Lokah : Swift Apology and Edit Announcement
Recognising the growing backlash, Wayfarer Films, the production house behind the project, released an official apology and committed to editing the dialogue from all future screenings.
“We regret the oversight and understand the concerns raised by our viewers in Karnataka. The line was never intended to hurt sentiments, and it will be removed immediately,” the statement read.
The offending dialogue was delivered by the antagonist, Nachiyappa Gowda, a chauvinistic character portrayed as religious and regressive. While some defended the creative choice as contextually valid, the broader consensus pushed for its removal due to its potential to offend real-life communities.
Crisis Handled, Momentum Intact
Despite the controversy, Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra led by Kalyani Priyadarshan and directed by Dominic Arun, has managed to retain its stronghold at the box office. Trade analysts credit its blend of visual spectacle, genre novelty, and solid performances for keeping audiences engaged.
Here’s how the film has fared since release:
- Opening Day (Aug 28): ₹2.7 crore
- Friday: ₹4 crore
- Saturday: ₹7.6 crore
- Sunday: ₹10.1 crore
- Monday: ₹7.2 crore
- Total (6 Days): ₹39.37 crore net (India)
The OTT rights have reportedly been picked up by a major platform, and fans are now awaiting an official announcement on the digital premiere.
Cinema in a Diverse Nation
Lokah’s quick course correction stands as a case study in how film productions must stay nimble in India’s culturally diverse landscape. What might pass as a character trait in one region can offend deeply in another, making both awareness and accountability crucial in storytelling today.
As Lokah Chapter 1 continues its theatrical run, the filmmakers’ response appears to have struck the right note, protecting both the film’s reputation and its audience goodwill.
