Bengaluru: Kantara: Chapter 1 has achieved another remarkable milestone at the Indian box office. On its 38th day in theatres, the Rishab Shetty directorial climbed to the 8th position among the highest-grossing Indian films, surpassing several mainstream Hindi and pan-India titles. The film has collected over ₹600 crore globally and continues to draw audiences in certain regions, particularly in Karnataka and parts of the Hindi belt.
A sleeper success story
The film, which arrived with comparatively modest buzz, has steadily grown on strong word-of-mouth driven by its rooted storytelling, cultural themes, and Rishab Shetty’s intense performance. Analysts note that Kantara: Chapter 1 has benefitted from repeat viewership and a connection to folklore that has resonated across audiences.
Industry trackers estimate that the film earned around ₹1.35 crore on Day 38, showcasing unusually long box-office legs in a landscape where most films peak within the first two weeks.
Eyes on Stree 2 benchmark
With the film now placed in the 8th all-time chart, discussions have begun around whether it can overtake Stree 2, which sits at over ₹620 crore. The gap is not very large, but sustaining momentum over the next two weeks will be crucial, especially as new releases enter theatres.
Trade insiders believe the film’s performance in Tier-2 and Tier-3 markets may continue to support its earnings, though competition is set to intensify.
A cultural moment
Critics and film scholars have also pointed to Kantara: Chapter 1 as a case study in regional cinema leading a national conversation. Much like the first film in the franchise, the sequel has showcased the power of local stories told with sincerity, without depending solely on star power or heavy marketing.
Rishab Shetty, who has handled direction, writing, and acting, has been widely praised for his immersive world-building and visual storytelling rooted in tradition and belief systems.