OTT platform responds to dubbing concerns on ‘Lokah,’ replaces reel with new version

The Malayalam blockbuster ‘Lokah: Chapter One – Chandra,’ which recently made history by becoming the first Malayalam film to gross over ₹300 crore, is all set to premiere on a popular OTT platform. Although the official streaming date is yet to be announced, the platform recently released a promotional reel confirming the film’s upcoming digital debut.

The reel features a montage of scenes from the movie, including one where lead actress Kalyani Priyadarshan introduces her character, Chandra. However, the clip quickly sparked reactions from fans, many of whom noticed that Chandra’s voice — originally dubbed by singer and voice artist Sayanora Philip — sounded noticeably different.

The comments section was soon flooded with requests and concerns from viewers, with many pleading, “Please don’t change Chandra’s voice,” while others asked, “Where is Sayanora Philip’s voice?” Many also tagged Dulquer Salmaan’s production house Wayfarer Films to air their concern.

Some fans, however, pointed out that the reel likely featured a mix of dubbed versions from different languages, since Lokah was released in multiple regional languages apart from Malayalam. However, the OTT platform soon responded to the dubbing concerns raised by Lokah fans, by replacing the reel with the corrected original voice. ‘Lokah’ directed by Dominic Arun, who had previously helmed ‘Tharangam’ dominated the box office ever since it hit theatres during Onam. The film is set to release on Jio Hotstar, which is the film's OTT partner.

The replaced OTT teaser:

The movie teaser with Sayanora's voice for Chandra: