At the pre-release event for "Kantara: Chapter 1" in Hyderabad, Rishab Shetty, the actor-director of the Kantara franchise, expressed his admiration and affection for Jr NTR, referring to him as his "brother". Shetty shared pictures with the RRR star on social media, further highlighting their bond.
Jr NTR also reciprocated the warm feelings, praising Shetty's dedication and vision in bringing the film to life. He recounted a personal experience where Shetty facilitated his mother's visit to the Sri Krishna Temple in Udupi, emphasizing the Shetty family's welcoming nature.
During the event, Jr NTR spoke highly of Shetty's capabilities as an actor-director, stating that Shetty masters all 24 crafts of cinema. He also acknowledged the immense effort and challenges involved in making "Kantara: Chapter 1". Jr NTR shared an anecdote about visiting a temple near Shetty's hometown, where the film crew had to create a path through water to reach the location for shooting, further illustrating the dedication and hard work that went into the film's production. He said it was humanly impossible to make the film without Rishab and his team.
"Kantara," released in 2022, became a pan-Indian success, captivating audiences with its authentic storytelling rooted in culture. The film, made on a budget of ₹16 crore, grossed over ₹407.82 crore worldwide. The film showcased Karnataka's traditions, particularly the Bhoota Kola ritual. Rishab Shetty not only directed but also starred in the film, delivering a performance that resonated with audiences. The film also won the National Award for Best Popular Film.
Rishab Shetty's journey in the film industry began with theater and short films, followed by working as an assistant director. He made his directorial debut with "Ricky" in 2016 and gained recognition for his acting roles in films like "Bell Bottom" and "Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana". "Kantara" established him as a filmmaker known for his culturally grounded stories.
The prequel, "Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1," is set centuries before the original film and promises to delve deeper into forest mythology, folklore, rituals, and belief systems. The film is slated for release on October 2, 2025. Initial predictions suggest a strong opening at the Indian box office, potentially surpassing the original film's success.
