Realizing the shift in consumer behavior and the legal implications, the administrators of the HD download website decided to pivot. They transformed the website into a portal that promoted and provided information about Malayalam films available on legal streaming platforms. The site now became a guide, helping viewers navigate where to watch their favorite Malayalam movies legally.
The turning point came with the rise of legal streaming platforms. Services like Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar, and Netflix started acquiring rights to Malayalam films, offering them in high definition and often simultaneously with their theatrical release. These platforms provided a legitimate and convenient way for audiences to watch their favorite movies.
The legal battle began when the Film Distributors Association of Kerala and several filmmakers approached the courts, leading to the website being taken down multiple times. Despite efforts to shut it down, the website operators managed to bring it back online under different domains. This cat-and-mouse game continued for several years.