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Bengaluru News: The team behind the Malayalam film Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra has issued an apology to the people of Karnataka following criticism over a dialogue that was seen as insulting Bengaluru and its women. The production house, Wayfarer Films, confirmed that the line will be edited out from the movie.

Lokah Chapter 1 Chandra: Dialogue Sparks Backlash In Karnataka

Soon after the film’s release, several social media users raised objections to a dialogue that allegedly portrayed Bengaluru as a hub of parties and drugs. Critics also argued that the dialogue demeaned women from the city. The outrage quickly gained traction online, with calls for the removal of the dialogue and an apology from the filmmakers.

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Lokah Chapter 1: Filmmakers Respond

Wayfarer Films, led by actor Dulquer Salmaan, released a statement acknowledging the issue. “It has come to our attention that a dialogue delivered by one of the characters has unintentionally hurt the sentiments of people from Karnataka. We deeply regret this oversight and assure you the line will be edited out. We sincerely apologise for the hurt caused,” the statement read.

Lokah: Reactions From Karnataka

According to The Hindu report, prominent voices in Karnataka’s film industry and activist circles criticised the portrayal. National Award-winning Kannada director Mansore highlighted a growing trend of Malayalam films depicting Bengaluru negatively. He compared it to earlier times when the city was shown as “a beautiful town,” blaming its current image on rapid migration.

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Kannada activist Rupesh Rajanna also condemned the dialogue, demanding an apology and immediate removal of the offensive content. He specifically called on Raj B. Shetty, the distributor of the film in Karnataka, to ensure changes are made.

On September 2, Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh confirmed that the Central Crime Branch’s social media monitoring cell was reviewing the matter. Authorities stated they would take appropriate action if any violations were found.