Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India]: After the monumental success of Kantara (2022), filmmaker Rishab Shetty is back with Kantara Chapter 1, set to hit theatres on October 2. The prequel delves deeper into the mystical roots of the Kantara universe, exploring themes of divinity, tradition, and the timeless conflict between humans and nature.
The Kantara effect and its legacy
When Kantara released in 2022, it quickly transformed from a small regional release into a nationwide phenomenon. The film, which eventually released in five languages, crossed Rs 400 crore at the worldwide box office. Critics and audiences alike lauded its climax for delivering a divinely immersive theatrical experience.
The film resonated deeply with viewers, particularly in Karnataka’s coastal and Kodagu regions. With Ajaneesh Loknath’s hypnotic music complementing Shetty’s storytelling, the first film created a lingering cultural and emotional impact. The prequel aims to build on this legacy, taking audiences further into the enigmatic woods of Kantara.
A journey back to the Kadamba era
While the first film examined human-nature conflicts in a contemporary setting, Kantara Chapter 1 travels nearly 2,000 years back, during the Kadamba dynasty. Rishab Shetty has emphasised extensive research for an authentic portrayal of civilisation under divine guidance, promising a rich historical context for the eternal struggle between man and nature.
Scale, cast, and vision
The trailer highlights the expanded scale of the prequel. Unlike many big-budget films prioritising star power, this project invests heavily in storytelling and production. The cast features Rukmini Vasanth, Jayaram, Gulshan Devaiah, and familiar collaborators such as Prakash Thumminad and Deepak Panaje.
Shetty himself, now a National Award winner, anchors the film while the story unfolds into a grand period drama involving rulers, princesses, and warriors. The ambitious leap from a rural narrative to a historical epic showcases the director’s vision and credibility.
Rishab Shetty: Filmmaker and star
Rishab Shetty has established himself as a powerhouse in Kannada cinema. From critically acclaimed films like Ricky and Sarkari Hiriya Prathamika Shaale to hits like Kirik Party and Bell Bottom, Shetty’s career reflects a commitment to content-driven cinema.
Upcoming projects such as Jai Hanuman and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj further cement his rising star power. His focus on strong narratives makes Kantara Chapter 1 a highly anticipated release.
Kannada and Indian cinema in 2025
Kannada cinema saw national recognition in 2022 with films like KGF: Chapter 2, Kantara, 777 Charlie, and Vikrant Rona. However, momentum has slowed, and only a few recent releases have broken out nationally.
Across Indian cinema, 2025 has been underwhelming, with major films such as Coolie, War 2, and Sikandar failing to meet expectations. In this landscape, Kantara Chapter 1 is seen as one of the few films capable of crossing Rs 1,000 crore, potentially restoring Kannada cinema’s national reputation.
Challenges and scepticism
The prequel faces hurdles, including mixed reactions to its period drama setting and new characters. Calls for boycotts in Telugu regions have emerged following disputes between Kannada activists and Pawan Kalyan fans. Unlike franchises such as Baahubali or KGF, Kantara Chapter 1 introduces an entirely new narrative, making audience acceptance crucial.
Despite these risks, the film’s ambition, authenticity, and rootedness in Karnataka’s folklore make it a landmark project. All eyes are on Rishab Shetty and his team as they prepare to transport audiences back into the mystical heart of the Kantara universe.