Rishab Shetty's Kantara: Chapter 1, a prequel to the 2022 blockbuster Kantara, has been released worldwide on October 2, 2025. The film is written and directed by Rishab Shetty, and produced by Vijay Kiragandur and Chaluve Gowda under Hombale Films.
Plot and Setting: Kantara: Chapter 1 delves deeper into the origins of the mythological tradition and ancestral conflict introduced in the first film. Set in pre-colonial coastal Karnataka during the reign of the Kadambas from Banavasi, the film explores the ancient roots of the Bhuta Kola ritual and the mythological lore and history. The story revolves around the conflict between the tribals of Kantara forest and a tyrannical king. It throws light on the origin of Panjurli Daiva and Guliga Daiva. The narrative follows Berme, a fierce warrior, as he confronts a tyrannical king, setting the stage for the legendary events of the original Kantara. The film is set in 4th century India.
Cast: The film stars Rishab Shetty as Berme, Rukmini Vasanth as Kanakavathi, and Gulshan Devaiah as Kulashekara. The cast also includes Jayaram as King Rajashekara, Pramod Shetty as Bhogendra, Rakesh Poojari, Prakash Thuminad as Chenna, Deepak Rai Panaje as Sankappa, and Hariprashanth M G as King Vijayendra.
Production: Filming began in November 2023. B. Ajaneesh Loknath, who composed for the prequel, returned to compose the soundtrack and background score. The first single titled "Brahmakalasha" was released on September 28, 2025, and the second single titled "Rebel Song" was released on October 1, 2025. The film was released in standard, IMAX, D-Box, ICE, 4DX, Dolby Cinema and EPIQ formats. Apart from Kannada, it was also released in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Bengali, English and Spanish.
Reception: Kantara: Chapter 1 has received generally positive reviews from critics. Initial reviews from fans have been fantastic, with many calling it a cinematic masterpiece. Viewers have praised the film's world-building, visuals, and Rishab Shetty's performance. The film is being hailed as a visual spectacle, blending breathtaking cinematography with gripping storytelling.
Box Office: The film has had a strong start at the box office. Advance bookings crossed ₹12 crore gross by 11 AM on release eve. The prequel collected over Rs 20 crore through advance booking. On its first release date, October 2, Kantara Chapter 1 has managed to collect a net collection of ₹37.24 crore in India till evening shows. The film is expected to open with ₹20 crores or higher for its dubbed Hindi version. The film is giving tough competition to Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor-starrer Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari. Kantara Chapter 1 has grossed over Rs 4 crore from the USA premiere itself, while the final day 1 number for the film is likely to be over Rs 100 crore.
Themes: The film blends regional folklore, spirituality, and action, continuing the saga of man's relationship with nature and the divine. It captures folklore, faith, and human emotions in a powerful and cinematic way.
Despite some competition from other releases, Kantara: Chapter 1 is poised to be a major success, with its strong performances, stunning visuals, and engaging storyline.
