🌴 Mollywood News & Entertainment

Mollywood

BY Sacnilk Team 📰 News

Drishyam 3 Malayalam Version Moves Ahead as Multilingual Plan Stalls

The Drishyam franchise has always been about timing, tension, and perfectly-placed secrets — and interestingly, that drama is now unfolding behind the screen too. While director Jeethu Joseph’s original plan was to roll out Drishyam 3 simultaneously in Malayalam, Telugu, and Hindi, the ambitious multilingual dream has now hit turbulence. The Malayalam version — led by Mohanlal — is currently the only one on steady ground. The film is said to be in motion, marking the next chapter in Georgekutty’s iconic journey. With the director and original team aligned, the Malayalam instalment remains the core focus at the moment. The Telugu and Hindi versions, headlined by Venkatesh and Ajay Devgn respectively, are currently experiencing delays on multiple fronts. The Telugu production is said to be impacted by scheduling constraints, with Venkatesh committed to prior projects, while the Hindi version is reportedly navigating pace-slowing rights and legal discussions. Although the initial intention was to mount all versions together as a unified franchise rollout, aligning timelines, creative execution, and contractual clarity across industries has proven more complex than anticipated. While Malayalam fans are thrilled, there’s a key challenge here: If the Malayalam version releases first, the mystery — which is the franchise’s core strength — risks being revealed early. And for a thriller series built on twists, even a hint of the plot can dilute excitement elsewhere.Trade circles feel this could directly impact the theatrical performance of the Hindi and Telugu versions. Drishyam is a franchise where suspense isn’t just a tool — it’s the box office engine.It set a benchmark by delivering powerful thrillers across languages with tightly-kept secrets and coordinated release strategies. A unified Drishyam 3 rollout would have been a rare cinematic moment — three industries, one mystery. For now, though, that plan appears paused. Georgekutty is moving first. Whether Vijay Salgaonkar and Ram Babu follow closely — or wait from the sidelines — depends on how the production and rights puzzle resolves. For now, Malayalam audiences hold the first seat to the next big chapter.In short: an early Malayalam release may strengthen original-language hype but could weaken nationwide momentum for the other versions.

212 days ago

17.2K views

Mollywood

BY Christa Lincy 📰 News

Keerthy Suresh & Antony Varghese Team Up for the First Time in New Malayalam Action Film

A fresh Malayalam pairing is on the way — National Award-winner Keerthy Suresh and Antony Varghese (Pepe), known for his intense performances in films like Angamaly Diaries and Kattalan, are joining forces for the first time in an upcoming action entertainer. The film was officially announced through a concept reveal video, teasing a stylish and powerful tone with the lines: “Action meets Allure. Power meets Valour.” The project has been tentatively titled The Demesne, though the makers are yet to confirm if this will remain the final title. The film is written and directed by Rishi Sivakumar, who previously made Valliyum Thetti Pulliyum Thetti. It is being jointly produced by AVA Productions, First Page Entertainment, and Maargaa Entertainers — signalling a strong backing and mainstream commercial intent. This venture marks Keerthy Suresh’s return to Malayalam cinema, where she started her journey before expanding across Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi industries. For Antony Varghese, the film continues his streak of rugged, high-energy roles — this time paired opposite one of South India's most celebrated female stars. Keerthy Suresh has a busy slate ahead with Revolver Rita (Tamil), Kannivedi (Tamil) and Akka (Hindi) lined up for release in 2025-26. Antony Varghese — popularly known as “Pepe” — is also actively working on new ventures, including Kattalan and Ajagajantharam 2, signalling his continued focus on intense action-drama roles. While plot details are currently under wraps, early hints suggest a stylish action-driven narrative with strong character arcs. The combination of Keerthy’s commanding screen presence and Antony’s intense acting style has already sparked interest among fans. Shooting schedules, additional cast, and technical crew are expected to be announced soon.With this exciting new collaboration, Malayalam cinema continues to experiment with star pairings and genre-driven storytelling — and all eyes are now on how this dynamic duo will light up the big screen.

216 days ago

1.9K views

Mollywood

BY Christa Lincy 📰 News

Thudakkam Begins Vismaya Mohanlal Officially Steps Into Cinema

Thudakkam — meaning “beginning” — has officially rolled out, marking the acting debut of Vismaya Mohanlal, daughter of Malayalam cinema icon Mohanlal. The film is directed by Jude Anthany Joseph, known for the acclaimed hit 2018, and is being produced by Aashirvad Cinemas under Antony Perumbavoor. The project was formally launched with a traditional pooja ceremony in Kochi, attended by Mohanlal and key members of the team. Speaking at the event, Mohanlal shared that he never imagined watching his children step into cinema and expressed quiet pride as Vismaya begins her journey on screen. While official plot details are yet to be revealed, Thudakkam positions Vismaya in the lead role. Reports also note that she has been undergoing intensive training in Thailand in preparation — signalling a performance-focused debut rather than a conventional launch vehicle. The film’s theme and title hint at a personal and cinematic milestone wrapped into one. With Jude Anthany Joseph at the helm and a banner like Aashirvad backing it, the project arrives with credibility and curiosity rather than flash, keeping the focus on craft and storytelling. A release timeline has not yet been announced, and filming is expected to begin later in 2025. As production progresses, further casting and plot details are likely to follow.For now, Thudakkam stands as a simple but meaningful moment — a new name entering Malayalam cinema, a trusted team shaping the project, and a debut framed by preparation and promise rather than noise. More updates are expected as filming begins.

216 days ago

2.5K views

Mollywood

BY Christa Lincy 📰 News

Mohanlal Returns to the Cop Persona in Highly Anticipated Malayalam Thriller ‘L365

Malayalam cinema’s beloved star Mohanlal is all set to don the khaki once again in his upcoming film L365, directed by debutant Austin Dan Thomas and produced by Ashiq Usman under his home banner. The film’s announcement, accompanied by an intriguing first-look poster showing a police uniform hanging in a washroom, has already sparked excitement among fans, hinting that Mohanlal will be returning to one of his most iconic on-screen personas—a police officer. The project is scripted by Retheesh Ravi, known for crafting engaging and emotionally layered screenplays, raising expectations for a gripping mix of action, emotion, and entertainment. Reports suggest that L365 could be a cop-based action thriller or a cop-comedy, offering Mohanlal an opportunity to blend his trademark intensity with his effortless charm and humor. The title itself—L365—has become a talking point among fans, with many speculating that it could symbolize a story that unfolds over the course of a year or explore the life of a cop dealing with daily challenges, symbolizing 365 days of duty and dedication. Director Austin Dan Thomas, who steps into filmmaking after his stint as an actor and associate director, is expected to bring a fresh perspective and youthful energy to the narrative, while Ashiq Usman’s production house, known for backing quality and commercially strong projects, ensures that the film will be mounted on a solid scale. Currently, Mohanlal is busy shooting for Drishyam 3, the much-awaited continuation of the hit thriller series directed by Jeethu Joseph, which began filming in October 2025. Once the Drishyam 3 schedule wraps up, he is expected to begin work on L365. This collaboration between a seasoned superstar and a first-time director has already generated significant buzz across social media, especially since Mohanlal’s cop roles—from Baba Kalyani to Grandmaster—have left a lasting mark on audiences. Though the makers have kept the storyline tightly under wraps, the film promises an engaging mix of drama, suspense, and human emotion. With Mohanlal’s charisma at the center, L365 looks poised to be one of the most awaited Malayalam films of the coming year, blending nostalgia, novelty, and the timeless appeal of a star who continues to redefine versatility with every new role.

224 days ago

7.1K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

Kalyani Priyadarshan's All-Time Blockbuster Lokah OTT Release Details Revealed

Kochi, October 24 - Kalyani Priyadarshan's superhero spectacle Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra is all set to make its digital debut, after creating history at the box office. The makers have been kind enough to give the film an extended theatrical run, which is very rare for a South Indian title in current times. Directed by Dominic Arun and produced by Dulquer Salmaan's Wayfarer Films, Lokah released in theatres on August 28, 2025, and has since gone on to create history at the box office. The visually grand fantasy-action film has grossed over 300 crores worldwide, becoming the first Malayalam film ever to achieve this milestone. The movie's phenomenal run shattered records, earning it the title of an All-Time Blockbuster. According to the latest reports, Lokah will start streaming on JioHotstar on October 31st, after completing the extended theatrical window of 9 weeks. It will stream in Malayalam, Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Bengali, and Marathi. The film has been praised for its world-building, visual effects, and a deeply rooted mythological narrative. Its massive success has not only expanded Malayalam cinema's commercial reach but also set new standards for technical excellence and storytelling in Indian cinema. With its digital release, the movie is expected to set a new viewership benchmark for Malayalam cinema, as there has been a lot of curiosity for it among the OTT audience. Stay tuned...

234 days ago

8.9K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

Kalyani Priyadarshan's Lokah Becomes The First Malayalam Movie To Top 300 Crores Worldwide

Kochi, October 6 - A historic milestone has finally been reached in the Malayalam cinema as Kalyani Priyadarshan's superhero film Lokah Chapter 1 - Chandra has become the first film ever to breach the 300 crore mark at the worldwide box office. This remarkable feat, once considered untouchable for a Malayalam-language film, underscores the industry’s expanding reach over the past few years. After its thunderous start at the box office, Dominic Arun's directorial has maintained extraordinary momentum across all major markets — from Kerala and the rest of South India to international territories like the UAE, the USA, and Europe. As of the 7th Saturday (45th day), the film has minted approximately 301.50 crores worldwide. Earlier, within just a few weeks of release, Lokah surpassed every major record set by previous Malayalam blockbusters, including Manjummel Boys, Empuraan, to become the industry hit. With its OTT release still not locked, which is one of the major reasons for the film's incredible long box office, the superhero film managed to achieve an unthinkable 300 crores milestone — a landmark moment for the industry. The film's mix of strong storytelling, visually captivating world-building, and Kalyani Priyadarshan's standout performance has resonated deeply with audiences, driving repeat viewership and word-of-mouth appeal. It blends mythology, philosophy, and fantasy in a way rarely attempted in Indian cinema. Lokah's success underscores the widening appeal of Malayalam storytelling, which continues to find loyal audiences far beyond its regional boundaries. Over the last few years, the industry has scaled to new highs, and Lokesh has only taken it further. It has reaffirmed Malayalam cinema's status as a powerhouse of creative and commercial brilliance. Stay tuned...

241 days ago

7.6K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

Mahesh Narayanan's Multistarrer With Mohanlal and Mammootty Gets Officially Titled As Patriot

Kochi, October 2 - One of the most-awaited Malayalam movies in the making, featuring the Big M's of Indian cinema, Mohanlal and Mammootty, has officially been titled as Patriot. The mega movie also stars Nayanthara, Fahadh Faasil, Kunchacko Boban, and Revathi in key roles. Directed by Mahesh Narayanan, the title teaser of Patriot was launched on October 2nd, on the occasion of Dussehra. The 1-minute and 21-second-long teaser promises an action-packed espionage thriller. The promo leaves many hints, as it doesn't reveal much about the plot. Meanwhile, Bollywood superstar Salman Khan shared the teaser of Patriot on his Instagram stories. There have been reports that he would be teaming up with Mahesh Narayan for an action thriller film, and the latest development hints at the same. Produced by Anto Joseph Productions, the film will be released in multiple Indian languages, including Malayalam, Telugu, Hindi, and Tamil, languages. While the makers didn't reveal the release date yet, reports say the film will hit the big screens on Vishu 2026, on April 15. Stay tuned...

245 days ago

5.3K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

Kalyani Priyadarshan's Lokah Reigns Supreme at Indian Box Office, Becomes Biggest Malayalam Grosser, Beating Manjummel Boys

Kochi, September 27 - Kalyani Priyadarshan's superhero film Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra can't stop breaking records at the box office as it continues its strong run. After becoming the highest-grossing Malayalam movie at the worldwide box office, it has now become the biggest Mollywood grosser domestically. The Dominic Arun's directorial has beaten Manjummel Boys, which grossed approximately 167.50 crores, in 31 days to become the biggest Malayalam grosser at the Indian box office. The film's total domestic gross now stands at around a record 169 crores. The film has been running to packed houses across Kerala, with extraordinary word-of-mouth propelling its collections week after week. It is just 9 crores away from dethroning Mohanlal's Thudarum (119 crores) to become the biggest grosser in the state. Lokah's mesmerising visuals, world-building, cinematography, production, soundtrack, and Kalyani Priyadarshan's solid performance have made it resonate with audiences far beyond the state’s borders. With this record-breaking performance, Lokah not only cements its place as a box office phenomenon but also highlights the growing reach and appeal of Malayalam cinema in India. Stay tuned...

249 days ago

6.5K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

Tovino Thomas' Lokah Chapter 2 Officially Announced With A Special Promo

Kochi, September 27 - Producer Dulquer Salmaan's superhero film Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra, starring Kalyani Priyadarshan, has turned out to be a mammoth box office success with a gross collection of over 280 crores worldwide. The movie, directed by Dominic Arun, is Malayalam cinema's biggest grosser of all time. On Saturday (September 27), the makers officially announced Lokah Chapter 2, which will be headlined by Tovino Thomas, who, along with Dulquer Salmaan, made cameo appearances in the first part. The announcement was made through a special video, which is intriguing and has set the stage for bigger things to come. In a nearly three-minute-long video featuring Tovino Thomas as Michael/Chathan and Dulquer Salmaan as Charlie/Odiyan, the duo are discussing their characters in a fun conversation. When Charlie describes Michael as a "boring" person, as he always remains drunk, the latter disagrees with it and says he is a fun guy, and that his and his 389 brothers' basic trait is drinking alcohol. Chathan then points to the 'They live among us' book, mentioning how the first chapter was about Kalliyankattu Neeli, whom he calls his girl, and shared that the second part will be about him. He reveals that his brother is violent, not 'fun' like him, as he claims he's after him and Moothon (voiced by Mammootty). When he asks Charlie if he would come in case of any help, he rejects, stating he wouldn't want to interfere in Chathan's family issues. After a small disagreement, Michael says he would bring Charlie even if he doesn't want to come. Dominic Arun will return to write and direct Chapter 2. The filming is expected to begin by the end of this year or early next year. Stay tuned...

250 days ago

28.1K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

Dulquer Salmaan Clears The Air Over Lokah OTT Release

Kochi, September 21 - Malayalam star and producer Dulquer Salmaan has put an end to the swirling speculations around Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra's digital release. There have been rumours about the OTT release of the superhero blockbuster, which is running riot at the box office. Dulquer, who has produced Lokah under his banner Wayfarer Films, took to social media to dismiss the ongoing rumours, making it clear that the film isn't arriving on any OTT platform anytime soon. He urged fans to ignore the fake news and instead wait for official updates from the makers. "Lokah isn't coming to OTT anytime soon. Ignore the fake news and stay tuned for official announcements! #Lokah #WhatstheHurry," Dulquer wrote, emphasising that the theatrical run is far from over. The film, starring Kalyani Priyadarshan in the lead, continues to perform strongly at the box office even weeks after release. Lokah isn't coming to OTT anytime soon. Ignore the fake news and stay tuned for official announcements! #Lokah #WhatstheHurry— Dulquer Salmaan (@dulQuer) September 21, 2025 Lokah has already become the highest-grossing Malayalam film of all time and also achieved a rare triple in Malayalam cinema by grossing over 100 crores in Kerala alone, along with 100 crores in the overseas market and 50 crores in the rest of India. With its theatrical momentum still intact, fans will have to be patient before the much-anticipated digital premiere is confirmed. Stay tuned...

256 days ago

5.2K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

Kalyani Priyadarshan's Lokah Achieves A Rare Triple At The Box Office

Kochi, September 21 - Kalyani Priyadarshan's superhero action spectacle Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra continues its record-breaking journey at the worldwide box office, and has become the highest-grossing film of all-time for Malayalam cinema, by beating Mohanlal's Empuraan in 24 days. Apart from being the biggest Mollywood blockbuster, Lokah registered a feat no Malayalam film has ever managed before. The film has emerged as the first from the industry to cross 100 crores in the home state of Kerala, 100 crores in overseas markets, and 50 crores in the rest of India, emerging as a true Pan-India blockbuster. This rare triple achievement underscores the film's widespread acceptance among audiences both at home and abroad. The Kerala market, traditionally the backbone of Malayalam cinema, has been the strongest pillar for Lokah. By racing past the 100 crore milestone in the state alone, the film has set a new benchmark for future blockbusters. It is only the second film after Thudarum to cross 100 crores in the state. Equally impressive has been its overseas performance, where it too breached the 100 crore mark, driven by strong collections in the Middle East and North America. Meanwhile, Lokah has also managed to penetrate the wider Indian market beyond Kerala, collecting over 50 crores from other states. This is a remarkable result for a Malayalam film, signalling its crossover appeal and rising pan-Indian recognition. With this triple strike, Lokah cements its place as a game-changer for the industry. After 24 days, the film's worldwide collection stands at around 271 crores, including over 156 crores in India. It needs to be seen how the movie fares in coming days, which will determine if it can go past 300 crores milestone and become the historic first for the content factory of Inndia cinema. Stay tuned...

256 days ago

21.3K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

Malayalam Superstar Mohanlal To Be Honoured With Dadasaheb Phalke Award

New Delhi, September 20 - The Malayalam cinema icon Mohanlal will be honoured with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2023, for his contribution to Indian cinema. The award, conferred by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on the recommendation of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee, will be presented during the 71st National Film Awards ceremony in New Delhi on September 23, 2025. Dadasaheb Phalke Award is the country's highest recognition in the field of cinema. Mohanlal is the second Malayali to receive this honour after film director, script writer, and producer Adoor Gopalakrishnan, who is regarded as one of the most notable and renowned filmmakers in India. Over a career spanning more than four decades, Mohanlal has acted in over 350 films across Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi and Kannada languages. From his early breakthrough in Manjil Virinja Pookkal to acclaimed classics such as Kireedam, Bharatham, Vanaprastham and Manichitrathazhu, the actor has displayed a remarkable range. Mohanlal's modern hits like Drishyam, Pulimurugan and Lucifer have set new benchmarks at the box office for Malayalam cinema. He is also the recipient of five National Film Awards, nine Kerala State Film Awards, and India’s civilian honours, the Padma Shri (2001) and Padma Bhushan (2019). The announcement has been met with widespread celebration across the film fraternity and beyond. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Mohanlal as the "epitome of excellence and versatility," while fans and colleagues praised the recognition as long overdue. With this honour, Mohanlal joins the league of Indian cinema legends who have shaped the industry’s artistic and cultural legacy, further cementing his status as one of the greatest actors of Indian cinema. I am deeply humbled and profoundly honored to receive The Dadasaheb Phalke Award. My heartfelt gratitude to Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji for your kind words and blessings, they fill me with encouragement and joy. I remain ever indebted to the art of cinema and to all… https://t.co/yMwNrNHMYm— Mohanlal (@Mohanlal) September 20, 2025 Stay tuned...

257 days ago

3.6K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

Lokah Creates History: Kalyani Priyadarshan's Superhero Saga Beats Mohanlal's Empuraan To Become Biggest Malayalam Grosser Worldwide

Kochi, September 20 - Kalyani Priyadarshan has etched her name in history as her superhero film Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra has become the Malayalam industry hit by beating superstar Mohanlal's political actioner Empuraan at the time of writing this piece. The film, which has been on a dream run ever since its release, has now overtaken Empuraan on its 24th day. Empuraan was released earlier this year and finished its box office journey with around 267 crores worldwide. Lokah is expected to be around 270 crores gross at the end of the day. Directed by Dominic Arun, Chandra has witnessed phenomenal numbers across domestic and overseas markets, powered by strong word of mouth, repeat viewings, and an engaging story that resonated with family audiences. The film's box office run is far from over, and trade analysts believe it could add many more crores before completing its theatrical journey. Though it will take more than what is left in the tank, Lokah has an outside chance of topping 300 crores worldwide, a dream Malayalam industry thought Empuraan would acheive. The achievement of the latest sensation is significant as it comes with a film led by a female. Until now, the list of top-grossing films has been dominated by male superstars, making Lokah's triumph an inspiring milestone. There is no doubt that Lokah is a watershed event for Malayalam cinema that could pave the way for more women-centric blockbusters in the industry. With this massive success, Kalyani has not only delivered the performance of her career but also rewritten the rules of box office dominance. Stay tuned...

257 days ago

8.2K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

Mohanlal's Drishyam 3 Release Date Revealed, As Director Jeetu Joseph Warns Fans

Kochi, September 16 - Malayalam superstar Mohanlal is all set to return as Georgekutty in Drishyam 3, the highly anticipated conclusion to director Jeethu Joseph's cult thriller franchise. The movie was recently announced officially, with the shooting scheduled to take place this month. While fans are eagerly awaiting another gripping and twist-laden thriller, Jeethu Joseph has issued a word of caution. Whenever the audience hears about Drishyam, they start thinking about the twists and turns in the plot, which leave them speechless. But they might have to lower their expectations this time. Addressing speculation about the tone of the new film, Jeethu Joseph revealed (as per India Today) that audiences should not expect Drishyam 3 to be a heavy, mind-bending film like its predecessors. Instead, the narrative will focus more on the evolution of Georgekutty's character after the dramatic events of Drishyam 2. Jeethu explained that this instalment is designed to explore Georgekutty's transformation as a person, his moral dilemmas, and how the weight of past secrets continues to shape his future. Unlike the intricately layered plotting of the first two parts, the third film promises a more emotional and character-driven journey, highlighting the human side of its protagonist. The filmmaker revealed that he has already completed the script. The team is reportedly planning simultaneous production for Malayalam and Telugu versions, continuing the pan-Indian appeal of the franchise. Meanwhile, according to the latest Malayalam media reports, the makers have locked the Eid 2026 release date for Drishyam 3. There have been reports that the makers were looking to release the movie on Christmas 2025, as the shoot is expected to be wrapped quickly. While that option is still available, March 19, 2026, is looking more probable, given the limited time the makers have. If the March 19, 2026 release date holds, Drishyam 3 will arrive nearly five years after Drishyam 2, which released directly on OTT in 2021 due to the pandemic. Meanwhile, the Hindi version of Drishyam 3 is also in development and is expected to start rolling in the first week of October 2025. The Ajay Devgn-fronted film has locked an October 2, 2026, release date for the same. Stay tuned...

261 days ago

8.6K views

Mollywood

BY Sacnilk Team 📰 News

Kalyani Priyadarshan's Lokah Emerges Number 1 Malayalam Film On BookMyShow

Kochi, September 15 – Kalyani Priyadarshan's Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra still has to run few more steps to become the biggest Malayalam grosser, but that historic milestone, it has emerged as the number 1 Mollywood film of all-time on the online ticketing platform BookMyShow. The superhero movie continues to set new milestones at the box office, and topping BMS sales is one of them. The fantasy epic has officially become the number one Malayalam film in terms of tickets sold, surpassing some of the biggest industry blockbusters. According to data by Filmy View, Lokah has sold a whopping 4.51 million tickets (and still running strong), edging past superstar Mohanlal's Thudarum, which also recorded 4.51 million tickets but has now settled its run. With this, Lokah has claimed the top spot, rewriting the history books for Malayalam cinema on the platform. The full ranking of Malayalam films on BookMyShow in terms of ticket sales stands as follows: Lokah –– 4.51+ million* Thudarum –– 4.51 million Manjummel Boys –– 4.30 million Empuraan –– 3.75 million Aavesham –– 3 million This achievement reflects not just the movie's massive box office success but also the increasing influence of digital ticketing platforms in determining a film's popularity among audiences nationwide. With Lokah still running successfully in cinemas, it is expected to widen the gap at the top in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, Lokah has crossed 250 crores running total at the worldwide box office, and is currently the second biggest Malayalam grosser of all-time. The Dominic Arun's directorial is now trailing Empuraan by around 17 to claim the number 1 spot, and it will most likely top that by the next weekend. Stay tuned...

262 days ago

5.7K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

Kalyani Priyadarshan's Lokah Overtakes Thudarum and Manjummel Boys To Become Second Biggest Malayalam Grosser

Kochi, September 15 – Kalyani Priyadarshan's fantasy superhero film Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra has reduced the gap between the number 1 Malayalam film of all-time and continues its historic box office run, scripting new milestones for Malayalam cinema. It surpassed the lifetime collections of Thudarum and Manjummel Boys, emerging as the second-highest-grossing Malayalam film ever. After a phenomenal start and strong legs worldwide, Lokah has become a pan-Indian as well as international success. Backed by stellar reviews for its world-building, breathtaking visuals, and Kalyani's career-defining performance, the film has managed to connect with audiences far beyond the home state, Kerala. On its 18th day, the Dominic Arun's directorial overtook Manjummel Boys (241+ crores worldwide), which stunned the trade last year with a record box office run. Earlier, on its 17th day, the latest sensation outgrossed Mohanlal's Thudarum (235+ crores worldwide), which is now the 4th biggest Mollywood blockbuster of all-time. Lokah is now within touching distance of overtaking Mohanlal's Empuraan (267 crores worldwide) to become the number 1 Malayalam film ever. After 18 days, the superhero blockbuster has grossed approximately 248+ crores globally, including around 140 crores domestically. Kalyani Priyadarshan, who shouldered the film with remarkable screen presence, has now entered the league of top Malayalam stars. With this success, Malayalam cinema has once again proven its storytelling power and global appeal. Stay tuned...

262 days ago

12.2K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

Kalyani Priyadarshan's Lokah Triumphs Overseas Box Office; Tops 100 Crore

Kochi, September 13 - Kalyani Priyadarshan's superhero saga Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra continues to run riot at the worldwide box office. The Dominic Arun directorial is on its way to becoming the second-highest-grossing Malayalam film worldwide by the end of this weekend. While Lokah continues to triumph at the global box office, it has registered yet another historic milestone by becoming only the second Malayalam film of all time to top 100 crores gross collection overseas, reaching there on its 16th day. Malayalam giant Mohanlal's political action thriller Empuraan is currently the number 1 overseas grosser with over 142 crores gross collection. Lokah, even though it might not emerge as the number 1 Malayalam overseas grosser, the film has enough stamina left to come close to Empuraan, which is remarkable. The pre-release buzz and strong word of mouth propelled Lokah to a sensational opening worldwide, followed by strong legs during the weekdays. While the domestic collections had already soared past 100 crore, the film's international reception has been equally impressive. It has performed best in the Middle East, which has historically been the strongest international market for Malayalam cinema. At the worldwide box office, the first film in Dulquer Salmaan's Wayfarer Cinematic Universe has grossed approximately 225 crores, including 123.50+ crores gross domestically. It will cross Thudarum (235+ crores worldwide) and Manjummel Boys (241+ crores) by the end of the third weekend, and become the second biggest Mollywoog grosser of all-time. Currently, Mohanlal's Empuraan (267 crores) is the number one, and Lokah will look to take down this coming days to claim the historic top spot. Stay tuned...

264 days ago

6.2K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

Kalyani Priyadarshan's Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra Enters Elite Box Office Club of 200 Crore Worldwide In 13 Days

Kochi, September 10 – Kalyani Priyadarshan's superhero spectacle Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra is proving to be a once-in-a-generation box office phenomenon in Malayalam cinema. The Dominic Arun directorial has shattered all expectations by entering the 200 crore worldwide box office club in just 13 days. After opening to rave reviews, the film has maintained extraordinary momentum both domestically and internationally. In Kerala alone, the movie is drawing record footfalls, while in overseas markets like the Middle East, North America, and Europe, it continues to post stunning numbers. Crossing the 200 crore milestone is a rare feat for Malayalam cinema, and Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra has done it with remarkable speed, becoming the second fastest to do so after Mohanlal's Empuraan. Overall, it is the fourth Malayalam film ever to breach this milestone, after Empuraan, Thudarum, and Manjummel Boys. As has been reported earlier, the trade believes the film has the potential to go much further, with family audiences and youngsters flocking to theatres in large numbers even after weekends. With no major competition on the horizon, the movie is expected to extend its dream run well into its third week and beyond. It is still a long way to go, but Lokah stands a genuine chance to become the highest-grossing Malayalam film by crossing Empuraan (267 crores), while also having an outside opportunity to become the first Mollywood film to reach 300 crores worldwide. The success of Lokah marks a watershed moment for regional cinema, showing how strong storytelling backed by visionary filmmaking can transcend linguistic and geographical barriers. This has opened new doors for Malayalam cinema, and particularly for the superhero genre. As the first chapter of what promises to be an ambitious franchise from Dulquer Salmaan's production, Chandra has set the stage for even bigger box office fireworks in the future. Stay tuned...

267 days ago

5.5K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

Overseas Box Office: Kalyani Priyadarshan's Lokah Joins Mohanlal's Thudarum and Empuraan in $10 Million Club

Kochi, September 8 - Kalyani Priyadarshan's superhero film Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra has achieved a remarkable milestone at the overseas box office. Dominic Arun's directorial is wreaking havoc in the international markets, and has topped $10 million gross collection in just 11 days. With this feat, Dulquer Salmaan's production has placed itself among the rare Malayalam films to touch such numbers internationally. The film's overseas performance is particularly significant as it has joined the elite club of Malayalam movies led by Mohanlal's Empuraan and Thudarum in the $10 million club. Before 2025, not a single Malayalam film reached $10 million overseas box office milestone, and now, the industry has three titles in the coveted club. In 11 days, it has grossed 91 crores ($10.3+ million). Superstar Mohanlal's L2: Empuraan is currently the highest-grossing Mollywood film with 124.50 crores ($13.75+ million), followed by his Thudarum with 94 crores ($10.50+ million). Industry experts attribute the movie's success to its universal appeal, a strong narrative rooted in mythological fantasy, and Kalyani's standout performance, which has received glowing reviews. The film was made on a budget of 30 crores, which is comparatively very low than the average movie of Bollywood, Kollywood, and Tollywood. Meanwhile, at the worldwide box office, Lokah is nearing 200 crores gross. It has grossed approximately 185+ crores through the second weekend (11 days). It will cross the milestone in a day or two, and then will begin its race to become the highest-grossing Malayalam film, while having a real shot at becoming the first 300 crores Mollywood blockbuster of all time. Stay tuned...

269 days ago

10.5K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

Lokah Box Office: Kalyani Priyadarshan's Superhero Blockbuster Revives Mollywood's 300 Crore Dream

Kochi, September 6 - The Malayalam film industry, known for its storytelling brilliance but traditionally limited market reach, has often aspired to match the massive box office benchmarks set by Bollywood, Tollywood, and Kollywood. Over the last couple of years, the industry has tried to unlock its full potential by delivering multiple 200 crores grossers, but something is still left there to achieve. While Bollywood, Tollywood, and Kollywood are frequently breaching the milestone of 300 crores worldwide gross, Malayalam cinema is yet to get there, despite coming close to it on a few occasions. Mohanlal's Empuraan (267 crores) was the closest to achieving this landmark box office figure, but ultimately fell short due to mixed word of mouth despite record-shattering openings. There has been a question that which upcoming movie could potentially unlock the coveted box office milestone. While not yet achieved, with Kalyani Priyadarshan-fronted superhero film Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra, the industry seems to have found its strongest contender yet. The film has struck a chord with audiences thanks to its growing pan-India appeal, high production values, and Kalyani's career-defining performance. What sets Lokah apart is not just its scale but the overwhelmingly positive reception it has received from both critics and general moviegoers. Unlike Empuraan, which fizzled out after the initial robust collection, Lokah is showing strong legs at the box office, hinting at a healthy long run ahead. In just 10 days (including the second Saturday), Lokah Chapter 1 has already grossed nearly 170 crores worldwide, and is expected to be around 200 crores by the end of the second weekend. The film is currently facing capacity issues, with shows running houseful in multiple territories amid intense competition from other releases. While the capacity issue is stopping the film from performing to its full potential, it is expected to fuel stronger weekday holds as audiences continue to flock to theatres. The film's prospects look brighter outside the home state, Kerala, where it is performing excellently. The rest of the Indian market, especially Telugu states, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, are coming handy for the movie, while overseas is performing like a beast. This expanding reach is crucial for Lokah to stand a real chance of getting to the 300 crores club, as Mollywood has traditionally been reliant on its home state, Kerala, along with the Gulf. The fact that Lokah is performing strongly across languages and regions gives it a unique edge, positioning it as Mollywood’s best shot yet at rewriting box office history. While the journey to the 300 crore landmark is still a long one, the trajectory is promising. If Lokah sustains its momentum through word of mouth and secures additional screen space in the coming weeks, it could very well become the first Malayalam film to join the elite 300 crore club. The Malayalam industry has been on a rise in the post-pandemic era, and the trade believes that if not Lokah, there will come a movie very soon which will get to the 300 crores milestone. But for now, the industry hopes that India's first female superhero blockbuster turns that dream into a reality.

271 days ago

10.9K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

Akshay Kumar Flags Off Lokah Hindi Release As Kalyani Priyadarshan's Superhero Film Storms Into Record 100 Crore Worldwide

Mumbai, September 3 - Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar, who is shooting for director Priyadarshan's crime thriller Haiwaan in Kerala, has lauded Kalyani Priyadarshan and the team of Malayalam blockbuster Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra for the stupendous box office success, while sending the best wishes for the film's Hindi release. Taking to the social media platform X, Akshay heaps high praise for the acting chops of Kalyani as he wrote, "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." 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 🙌— Jolly Mishra - Asli Jolly from Kanpur (@akshaykumar) September 3, 2025 Meanwhile, Dominic Arun's directorial superhero blockbuster has stormed past the 100 crores box office worldwide in just 7 days, becoming the first female-led South Indian film to achieve the milestone. It is also among the fastest Malayalam films to hit 100 crores globally. In Hindi, it will be released on September 4. Kalyani, daughter of acclaimed filmmaker Priyadarshan, has steadily built her reputation in South Indian cinema, but Lokah marks a true turning point in her career. Her powerful portrayal of Chandra has not only resonated with audiences but also proven that female-led films can achieve blockbuster status on par with mainstream star-driven projects. Stay tuned...

274 days ago

4.6K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

Kalyani Priyadarshan's Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra Creates History, Becomes Highest-Grossing Female-Led South Indian Film

Kochi, September 2 - Kalyani Priyadarshan's superhero film Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra scripts a major win for the female-led films as it has created history by becoming the highest-grossing South Indian film of all time. The film, which was released to decent anticipation, has stormed the box office by collecting over 80 crores gross worldwide in just 5 days. It has become the highest-grossing female-led film in South Indian cinema history on its 6th day, by beating Keerthi Suresh's Mahanati (84+ crores) as the worldwide total is expected to be over 90 crores at the end of the day. For years, female-centric films in South cinema have been celebrated for their critical acclaim and path-breaking storytelling, but only a few managed to set benchmarks commercially. Until now, Mahanati (84.5 crores), Rudhrama Devi (82 crores), Arundhati (68.5 crores), and Bhagamathie (64 crores) held the top spots in this category. With Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra racing past these films in less than a week, the film has rewritten box office history. The top 5 biggest South Indian female-led grossers are dominated by the lady superstar Anushka Shetty, with three films, which were released in the era of male dominance. Those films (Rudhrama Devi, Arundhati, Bhagamathie) will be miles ahead of Lokah if adjusted with inflation, but with non-inflation, the Malayalam blockbuster has claimed the title. Kalyani Priyadarshan’s Big Moment Kalyani, daughter of acclaimed filmmaker Priyadarshan, has steadily built her reputation in South Indian cinema, but Lokah marks a true turning point in her career. Her powerful portrayal of Chandra has not only resonated with audiences but also proven that female-led films can achieve blockbuster status on par with mainstream star-driven projects. Stay tuned...

275 days ago

6.5K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

The Future of Superhero Lokah Franchise Revealed: Promises To Be An Epic Conclusion

Kochi, September 2 - The Malayalam cinema has its own Marvellous beginning of the superhero franchise, Lokah. The first part of the series, Lokah Chapter 1 - Chandra, starring Kalyani Priyadarshan, was released recently amid glowing reviews, which led the movie to do wonders at the box office. Directed by Dominic Arun, Chandra has set the box office on fire, and scored the third biggest opening weekend ever for Malayalam cinema with 66 crores gross collection worldwide. This is by far the biggest Mollywood opening for a female-led title, and also for the superhero genre, which, anyway, is largely unexplored. Chandra featured post-credit scenes, featuring Dulquer Salmaan, who is also the producer of the film, and Tovino Thomas, as both will lead the next chapters of the franchise. As the anticipation is now all-time high for what will be going to unfold in the Lokah universe, the details regarding its future have been revealed. During the recent interview, cinematographer Nimish Ravi reportedly revealed that Lokah will be a five-part epic saga, where each film will be bigger than the last one. He also revealed that the director has already locked the stories for all five movies, which means the next film in the franchise will start rolling soon. Going by Ravi's words, Lokah will have a Marvel-esque conclusion where the heroes of the Lokah universe are likely to fight the main villain of it. If people are wondering who could be the main villain, he revealed that right from the opening scene of Chandra, there is a hidden clue about the ultimate villain of the series. With the astonishing success of Chandra, it is needless to say that the sky will be the limit for the next film. Stay tuned...

275 days ago

5.3K views

Mollywood

BY Sunit Jangir 📰 News

Lokah Worldwide Box Office Day 4: Kalyani Priyadarshan's Superhero Saga Takes Flight With Blockbuster Weekend

Kochi, September 1 - The Malayalam superhero spectacle Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra, starring Kalyani Priyadarshan and Naslen, has a massive extended opening weekend at the worldwide box office. Directed by Dominic Arun, the film has struck gold with audiences, setting new benchmarks for Malayalam cinema. On Sunday (Day 4), Dulquer Salmaan's Wayfarer Films production registered its biggest day yet in India, grossing over 11.50 crores, a remarkable jump that highlighted its growing momentum. This pushed the film's domestic total to approximately 28.25+ crores gross, which is among the all-time biggest for Malayalam cinema. The superhero drama has also been a massive hit overseas. With consecutive 20+ crore worldwide days, the film's overall tally now stands at 65+ crores worldwide after its extended four-day opening weekend. If the current estimates hold, Lokah will comfortably rank among the top 5 biggest Malayalam openers of all time, joining an elite list of top stars' blockbusters that have elevated the industry's stature in the global market. Lokah's impressive box office run signals a new chapter for Malayalam cinema, proving that the industry can deliver large-scale, globally appealing spectacles while retaining strong storytelling. Kalyani Priyadarshan’s turn as a superheroine has struck a chord with both youth and family audiences, while Dominic Arun's direction, Jakes Bejoy's BGM and Dulquer Salmaan's production vision have been widely praised. What is Next For Lokah Chapter 1? After the massive opening weekend, which has taken the trade, including the distributors, by surprise, the sky is the limit for the superhero film. It has turned into a box office phenomenon that isn't going to stop anytime soon. The advances for Monday are super strong and better than the opening day. With the current trend, the film is very likely to enter the 100 crores club worldwide in the opening week itself. All eyes will be on what happens next after it achieves this inevitable milestone. Stay tuned...

276 days ago

6.2K views