Mumbai: Actor-director Rishab Shetty paid a visit to the renowned Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai on October 10, 2025, to seek blessings after the phenomenal success of his film Kantara Chapter 1. The film has crossed the ₹500 crore mark in worldwide box office collections within its first week, setting a new benchmark for Kannada cinema and becoming one of the highest-grossing Indian films of the year.
Dressed in a traditional white shirt and mundu, Shetty was seen exiting the temple barefoot, a mark of respect and devotion, as he received blessings. Fans and well-wishers gathered outside to catch a glimpse of the actor, creating a festive atmosphere. He paused to interact briefly with the crowd and pose for photographs before leaving the premises.
The production team confirmed that the film has collected ₹509.25 crore globally, which they hailed as a “divine cinematic storm,” attributing the success to the audience’s overwhelming support and the film’s gripping storyline. Kantara Chapter 1 has also been praised for its unique blend of folklore, action, and cultural representation, resonating with audiences across multiple languages.
Film background and plot
Kantara Chapter 1 serves as a prequel to the 2022 blockbuster Kantara, set a thousand years before the events of the original movie. The film stars Rishab Shetty as Berme, a tribal man who fights for his community’s autonomy against a powerful neighboring prince. The narrative explores themes of identity, resistance, and cultural heritage, capturing the struggles of tribal communities in medieval Karnataka.
The film also features Rukmini Vasanth, Jayaram, and Gulshan Devaiah, who deliver compelling performances that complement Shetty’s portrayal of the protagonist. Critics and audiences alike have lauded the movie for its visual storytelling, cinematography, and authentic depiction of tribal rituals and traditions.
Cultural impact and reception
The success of Kantara Chapter 1 has sparked renewed interest in Kannada cinema on a national and international scale. Its milestone collection demonstrates the growing acceptance and popularity of regional films, encouraging filmmakers to explore culturally rich narratives. Shetty’s visit to Siddhivinayak Temple was seen as a symbolic gesture of gratitude, acknowledging the divine inspiration behind the film’s journey and its unprecedented success.
The movie’s performance has also opened doors for potential sequels and spin-offs, with fans eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the Kantara universe. Industry insiders suggest that this achievement could redefine the scope and reach of Kannada films in the coming years.