Bengaluru: Gulshan Devaiah, who plays the antagonist Kulasekhara in the pan-Indian blockbuster Kantara Chapter 1, has opened up about the film’s massive success and the attention it has brought him. The film, which has now grossed over ₹650 crore worldwide, beating even Baahubali’s mark, has been lauded across India, with Gulshan’s performance receiving widespread appreciation.

On the success of Kantara Chapter 1

Speaking to the Hindustan Times, Gulshan said he enjoys the praise but does not let it affect him. “I embrace the appreciation with both hands and then let it go. You move on to other things,” he explained.

He also acknowledged the practical impact the hit could have on his career. “This kind of attention makes a difference in terms of projects, deals, remuneration, and overall profile,” Gulshan said.

Fame and public recognition

The actor joked about his sudden jump in IMDb’s Most Popular Indian Stars list, rising from 213 to 22, thanks to the attention on Kantara Chapter 1. “Maybe if I do a bikini shoot, I’ll climb further,” he quipped. He expressed surprise at ranking above stars like Mrunal Thakur and Triptii Dimri, adding humorously, “I embrace it, but I’m ready to let go soon.”

Kannada roots, cinema as home

Though born in Bengaluru and fluent in Kannada, Gulshan does not consider his Kannada film debut a homecoming. “I am from Karnataka, but I belong to cinema. The moment I started doing cinema, that was my homecoming,” he explained, highlighting his broader attachment to storytelling rather than regional identity.

Expanding the idea of cinema

Kantara Chapter 1 has performed impressively across India, earning over ₹150 crore in Kannada and Hindi, with strong numbers in Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam versions as well. Gulshan said, “Once upon a time, Hindi films used to be pan-India because of their wide appeal. Now, stories rooted in other regions are also attracting native Hindi audiences. I’m happy to be part of this phenomenon.”

About Kantara Chapter 1

Directed and written by Rishab Shetty, who also stars in the lead, the film is a prequel to the 2022 blockbuster Kantara. It also features Rukmini Vasanth, Jayaram, and Gulshan Devaiah. The film continues to run successfully in theatres, earning accolades from audiences nationwide for its storytelling, performances, and visual grandeur.