Mumbai, October 11, 2025 – Rishab Shetty, the writer, director, and actor of the blockbuster Kantara Chapter 1, made a special visit to Gaiety Galaxy cinema in Mumbai, sending fans into a frenzy. The actor's appearance at the iconic theater, known for its enthusiastic audiences, was met with a shower of flowers and overwhelming support.
The visit comes on the heels of the film's release on October 2, 2025, which has already generated considerable buzz and divided early reviews. While some critics have lauded Shetty's cinematic brilliance, the film's visuals, and powerful performances, others have found it to be overhyped with weak content. Despite the mixed reception from critics, audiences have generally responded positively, with many praising the film's climax and emotional depth.
Videos circulating online show Shetty being greeted by a jubilant crowd at Gaiety Galaxy. Fans can be seen showering him with flowers and attempting to capture the moment on their phones. The atmosphere was electric, reflecting the strong connection Shetty has forged with his audience through his rooted storytelling.
Kantara Chapter 1 serves as a prequel to the 2022 hit Kantara and takes viewers back to the Kadamba dynasty era in 300 CE. The film blends history, mythology, and action, exploring the origins of the Daiva worship and the traditions that were touched upon in the first film. Shetty's performance as Daiva Guliga has been particularly praised, solidifying his position as a compelling storyteller in Indian cinema.
The success of Kantara Chapter 1 is especially meaningful for Shetty, who has spoken about his past struggles in the film industry. He recalled a time in 2016 when he had difficulty securing even one evening show for his film. Now, in 2025, Kantara Chapter 1 is playing to packed houses with over 5000 shows. This journey, he says, is a testament to the love, support, and God's grace he has received.
Shetty has emphasized the importance of regional storytelling in achieving global appeal. He believes that the more deeply rooted a story is in its culture, the more universally it can resonate. This philosophy is evident in Kantara Chapter 1, which showcases the traditions and folklore of coastal Karnataka.
The film stars Rishab Shetty and Rukmini Vasanth in lead roles. The music, composed by B. Ajaneesh Loknath, has also been widely appreciated. The cast includes Jayaram, Gulshan Devaiah, and Pramod Shetty.
The visit to Gaiety Galaxy is a part of Shetty's ongoing efforts to connect with audiences and promote Kantara Chapter 1. Previously, Shetty visited the Kollur Mookambika Temple with his wife, Pragathi Shetty, to seek blessings for the film's success. He also attended a pre-release event in Hyderabad, where he shared the stage with Jr NTR, calling him his "brother".
