The Malayalam film industry has a new creative powerhouse in Santhy Balachandran—an Oxford-educated anthropologist who co-wrote the groundbreaking superhero film Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra. Once a promising academic, she has now become one of the most talked-about screenwriters in India, thanks to a film that has grossed around ₹278 crore worldwide in just under a month.
From Academia to the Arts
Born in Kottayam, Kerala, Santhy’s path looked set for a career in academia. After studying at Hyderabad Central University, she pursued a postgraduate degree in anthropology at the prestigious Oxford University. But her heart was elsewhere. Choosing passion over convention, she left behind a PhD program to chase artistic dreams—a decision her parents wholeheartedly supported. That leap of faith would eventually redefine her career and Malayalam cinema itself.
The Creative Force Behind Lokah
Crafting Malayalam’s First Female Superhero
Released on August 28, 2025, Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra broke new ground as Malayalam cinema’s first female-led superhero film. Co-written with director Dominic Arun, the film blends Kerala’s mythical yakshi folklore with modern superhero storytelling.
Lead actress Kalyani Priyadarshan called Santhy the “biggest creative force” behind the movie, praising her involvement in everything from writing to promotions.
Box Office Triumph
The film has shattered records since release:
| Milestone | Collection | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| India Net Collection | ~₹139 crore | 26 days |
| Worldwide Gross | ~₹278 crore | 26 days |
| Opening Weekend | ~₹24 crore | First 4 days |
It now stands as the highest-grossing Malayalam film of all time, surpassing previous blockbusters.
More Than a Screenwriter
Acting Career
Before writing Lokah, Santhy was already an acclaimed actress:
- Tharangam (2017) – debut alongside Tovino Thomas
- Jallikattu (2019) – India’s official Oscar entry
- Gulmohar (2023) – Hindi debut with Sharmila Tagore & Manoj Bajpayee
- Sweet Kaaram Coffee – Tamil web series appearance
Visual Arts & Dramaturgy
Santhy has also exhibited her work as a visual artist in six solo shows. Her multi-disciplinary background influenced her approach as Lokah’s dramaturgist—shaping a narrative that ties Kerala’s folklore to globally familiar superhero tropes.
Industry Recognition
Renowned names like Aashiq Abu and Rima Kallingal have praised her vision. Producer Dulquer Salmaan, who backed Lokah, highlighted her pivotal role in creating a Malayalam film with international scale.
The film has achieved historic milestones:
- Highest-grossing Malayalam film worldwide
- Third highest-grossing female-led Indian film
- One of the few Malayalam films to cross ₹250 crore globally
- First successful female-led superhero film in Malayalam cinema
Feminist Lens in Storytelling
Santhy’s academic background shapes her narratives with a strong feminist perspective. In Lokah, she reimagines the yakshi—traditionally portrayed as a predatory spirit—into a complex, powerful heroine whose story resonates with modern audiences.
A Defining Moment for Malayalam Cinema
Santhy Balachandran’s transformation—from Oxford scholar to screenwriter of Malayalam cinema’s biggest hit—is nothing short of inspiring. As Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra continues its theatrical run and gears up for its OTT release, Santhy’s influence marks a turning point for female-led storytelling in regional cinema.
Her journey is proof that courage to step off the conventional path can create history—not just in one’s career, but for an entire industry.
