Santhy Balachandran Lokah: Oxford Graduate & Gulmohar Actor Behind Kalyani Priyadarshan’s Superhero Film

Santhy Balachandran Lokah journey has become one of the most inspiring stories in Malayalam cinema. Widely recognized for her acting talent in films like Tharangam, Jallikkattu, and Gulmohar, Santhy has now stepped into the spotlight as the co-writer of Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra.

Dominic Arun’s superhero drama Lokah, starring Kalyani Priyadarshan and Naslen, released on August 28, 2025, and has already crossed ₹24 crore in India and ₹60 crore worldwide. Much of the film’s success is being credited to the creative vision of Santhy Balachandran Lokah, who shaped its narrative voice and added emotional depth to the story.

From Oxford to Malayalam Cinema

Born in Kottayam, Santhy pursued anthropology at Oxford University after her studies at Hyderabad Central University. Despite her academic brilliance, her passion for arts and performance led her back to India, where she explored theatre before entering films. Her acting debut came with Tharangam (2017), followed by impactful performances in Jallikkattu and Paapam Cheyyathavar Kalleriyatte.

Santhy Balachandran Lokah Contribution

In Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra, Santhy not only co-wrote the script but also worked closely on promotions and creative direction. Actress Kalyani Priyadarshan praised her as “the biggest creative force behind the film,” highlighting how she was more than just a writer.

Industry Recognition

Filmmakers like Aashiq Abu and Rima Kallingal have also applauded Santhy Balachandran Lokah contribution, calling her a visionary who helped craft Malayalam cinema’s first female-led superhero saga.

A Multi-Talented Force

From acting in Hindi films like Gulmohar to writing Malayalam’s most ambitious superhero story, Santhy has continuously reinvented herself. Her journey shows how passion and persistence can redefine careers, making Santhy Balachandran Lokah a name to watch out for in the future of Indian cinema.

Santhy Balachandran Lokah journey in Indian cinema has been nothing short of remarkable. Known for her versatility as both an actress and a writer, she has made her mark in Malayalam films, Tamil web series, and even Hindi cinema. Beyond the screen, Santhy is an Oxford-educated anthropologist and a visual artist, making her one of the most multidimensional talents in the Indian entertainment industry.

Early Life and Education

Santhy Balachandran was born in Kottayam, Kerala, into a family that moved frequently due to her parents’ transferable jobs. This gave her exposure to different cultures and lifestyles across India.

She pursued her postgraduate degree in Anthropology at Oxford University, UK. While studying, she actively participated in theatre and arts, which later shaped her career path. Alongside academics, she nurtured her passion for visual arts, organizing solo art exhibitions and participating in various group shows.

Acting Career

Theatre Beginnings

Before entering films, Santhy built her foundation in acting through theatre performances, showcasing her ability to blend intense characters with nuanced emotions.

Film Debut and Breakthrough

• Tharangam (2017): Santhy made her feature film debut opposite Tovino Thomas in this dark comedy thriller directed by Dominic Arun. Her performance was widely appreciated.
• Jallikattu (2019): She played Sophie in Lijo Jose Pellissery’s internationally acclaimed film, which was also India’s official entry to the 93rd Academy Awards.
• Paapam Cheyyathavar Kalleriyatte (2020): She portrayed Linda in this satirical comedy-drama.
• Randuper (2021): Santhy played Ria in this critically acclaimed independent film.
• Aaha (2021): In this sports drama based on the tug-of-war tradition, she played Mary.
• Chathuram (2022): She starred opposite Roshan Mathew and Swasika Vijay in this drama-thriller.
• Djinn (2023): A fantasy drama with Soubin Shahir, where her performance stood out.

OTT and Hindi Cinema

• Sweet Kaaram Coffee (2023): Santhy played a prominent role in this Tamil web series on Amazon Prime Video, gaining pan-Indian recognition.
• Gulmohar (2023): She shared screen space with veterans like Sharmila Tagore and Manoj Bajpayee in this Hindi family drama, streaming on Disney+ Hotstar.

Santhy Balachandran Lokah: Screenwriting Journey

Her biggest leap came in 2025 when she co-wrote Lokah: Chapter One – Chandra, a Malayalam superhero film directed by Dominic Arun and produced by Dulquer Salmaan.

The film starred Kalyani Priyadarshan as Chandra, a supernatural heroine rooted in mythological elements. Lokah received both commercial success (₹60 crore worldwide) and critical acclaim, with many praising the fresh narrative.

Actress Kalyani Priyadarshan credited Santhy Balachandran Lokah as the “biggest creative force” behind the film, appreciating her vision and storytelling craft.

Personal Life

Santhy keeps her personal life private, but she is known for balancing her creative pursuits across acting, writing, and visual art. Her Oxford education and strong artistic sensibility often reflect in the roles she chooses and the projects she takes up.

Awards and Recognition

• Recognized as one of the emerging voices in Malayalam cinema.
• Jallikattu earned her international visibility due to its Oscar selection.
• Lokah has positioned her as not just an actress but also a successful screenwriter in Indian cinema.

FAQs on Santhy Balachandran

Conclusion

Santhy Balachandran’s journey from an Oxford anthropology graduate to an acclaimed actress, visual artist, and co-writer of Lokah proves her versatility and creative brilliance. Whether on stage, on screen, or behind the script, she continues to push boundaries and inspire audiences. With her growing presence in Indian cinema, Santhy Balachandran Lokah is a name we will be hearing much more in the future.

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Her films include Tharangam (2017), Jallikattu (2019), Paapam Cheyyathavar Kalleriyatte (2020), Aaha (2021), Chathuram (2022), and Djinn (2023).

Yes, she appeared in Gulmohar (2023), alongside Sharmila Tagore and Manoj Bajpayee.

She co-wrote Lokah: Chapter One – Chandra (2025), a Malayalam superhero film featuring Kalyani Priyadarshan, which became a commercial and critical success.