In a significant move for South Indian cinema, two of the year’s most successful films, the Kannada prequel Kantara: Chapter 1 and the Malayalam action-fantasy Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra, premiered on major streaming platforms on October 31, 2025. This digital release comes as both films continue to enjoy a successful, albeit winding down, theatrical run, marking an exciting moment for fans eager to re-watch the blockbusters from home.
The Rishab Shetty directorial and starring vehicle, Kantara: Chapter 1, has achieved a colossal worldwide gross of ₹817 crore since its theatrical release on October 3rd. Its spiritual predecessor, 2022’s Kantara, became a national phenomenon, and the prequel, delving into the origins of the Panjurli Daiva legend, has proven that the audience’s appetite for this rooted, mystical storytelling is stronger than ever. The film is now available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video in its original Kannada version, alongside dubbed versions in other Indian languages, allowing its rich cultural tapestry to reach an even wider global viewership.
Malayalam’s Superhero Milestone and Record Run
Joining the digital party is Kalyani Priyadarshan’s stellar vehicle, Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra. The Malayalam superhero thriller, which premiered on August 28th, shattered records for Mollywood, earning an impressive ₹304.85 crore worldwide. The film has been widely praised for its innovative storytelling, stunning visuals, and the introduction of a powerful, female-led superhero narrative in the Malayalam film industry.
Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra is now streaming on JioHotstar. Sources close to the production note that the film’s availability in multiple languages on the platform is a strategic move to capitalize on the pan-Indian success Malayalam cinema has experienced in recent years. This release is expected to boost the film’s already phenomenal viewership and solidify the nascent Lokah cinematic universe hinted at by its creators.
A New Chapter for South Indian Film Distribution
The concurrent theatrical and digital momentum highlights the evolving distribution landscape in the Indian film industry. Despite a strong hold at the box office, the swift move to OTT platforms demonstrates the producers’ strategy to maximize revenue and global reach, keeping the films relevant in the public discourse. The fan excitement across social media platforms, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), has been palpable, with hashtags trending globally as viewers celebrate the chance to own a piece of these cinematic landmarks.
“The demand for these films transcends geographical boundaries. Their early OTT release ensures that the home audience, which contributed significantly to their box office success, can experience their magic again,” noted an industry analyst. With both films being critically and commercially acclaimed, their streaming debut promises to ignite a fresh wave of viewership and discussion about the future of South Indian blockbusters.