As the Kalyani Priyadarshan-starrer Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra continues to dominate the box office, actor-writer Santhy Balachandran has offered fans a rare glimpse into the creative process behind its rousing promo song 'Thani Lokah Murakkari'. On Monday, Santhy shared the concept note on social media, tracing how the idea evolved into a full-fledged anthem.
“A number of you had asked for a peek, so here it is,” she wrote, adding that the post also included behind-the-scenes images and videos from the recording sessions and the shoot. “Working with these uber-talented humans on this song was an unexpected perk of being a dramaturgist. The debates, the incredible late-night recording sessions, last-minute setbacks and the jugaad it inspired have become part of my core memories from Lokah,” she reflected.
The concept note, titled Not Your Goddess, challenges cultural dichotomies that revere women as divine figures in mythology while denying them agency in real life. It highlights how women’s sexuality and power are often cast as both essential and threatening, leading to suppression, sanctification or vilification across religions and legends. Drawing on examples from Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, Greek and Japanese myths, the note urges a reimagining of womanhood beyond binaries, calling for women to reclaim their narratives, agency and wholeness.
The anthem was penned by Muhsin Parari, with rap by Reble and music by Jakes Bejoy, while vocals were delivered by Jyoti Nooran and Reble. Directed by Dominic Arun and shot by Nimish Ravi, the promo video combines live footage with AI-generated visuals edited by Ajmal Haneef.
Released on August 28 during Onam, Lokah is directed by Dominic Arun with additional screenplay and dramaturgy by Santhy. The fantasy spectacle has reimagined a beloved Kerala folklore through a superhero lens, serving as the opening chapter of a planned five-part cinematic universe.
The film has already shattered multiple box office records, grossing ₹88.50 crore in Kerala after 18 days and nearing the ₹250 crore global milestone. If achieved, it will become only the second Malayalam film after Mohanlal’s L2: Empuraan to cross that landmark.