Thirthahalli– The team behind Kantara: Chapter 1 has been struck by another devastating loss, following the untimely death of actor and mimicry artist Viju V.K. during the film’s shoot. As per Asianet Suvarna News, the Kerala-born artist from Thrissur died of a suspected heart attack while staying at a homestay in Agumbe, located in Thirthahalli Taluk of Karnataka.

The incident reportedly occurred late on the night of June 11. Viju, who had been lodging at the homestay for the duration of the shoot, began experiencing sudden chest discomfort. Locals attempted to rush him to JC Hospital in Thirthahalli, but he was declared dead before reaching the facility. His body has been shifted to the government hospital in Thirthahalli, where a postmortem will be conducted upon the arrival of his family from Kerala.

This marks the third death in just over two months from the crew of Kantara: Chapter 1. On May 6, team member M.F. Kapil tragically drowned in the Souparnika River during a break. Merely days later, on May 12, comedian Rakesh Poojary succumbed to a heart attack while dancing at a wedding.

These back-to-back losses have deeply shaken the production team and cast. The string of tragedies has also sparked concern across the Kannada film industry and among fans.

Directed by Rishab Shetty and produced by Hombale Films, Kantara: Chapter 1 is a prequel to the 2022 blockbuster. The historical drama is scheduled for global release on October 2, 2025.

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