Following the massive success of Kantara (2022), Rishab Shetty returns with a grander vision in Kantara: Chapter 1, a prequel set to explore the mythological roots of the saga that captivated audiences across India.
From a Cult Hit to a Cinematic Universe
The original Kantara, written and directed by Rishab Shetty, was a cultural phenomenon. Made on a modest budget of ₹16 crore, it grossed over ₹400 crore worldwide. With powerful performances by Shetty himself alongside Sapthami Gowda and Kishore, and its deep dive into coastal folklore and Bhoota Kola tradition, the film earned National Awards and critical acclaim.
Enter Kantara: Chapter 1
Now, Shetty dives deeper. Kantara: Chapter 1 is a prequel tracing the origin of the deity and ancestral legacy central to the first film. Rishab Shetty plays a fierce warrior-sage in this mythic tale set during the Kadamba dynasty era. Directed and written by Shetty, the film is backed by Hombale Films (producers of KGF and Salaar).
The film’s scale is monumental: over 500 fighters, a 25-acre mountain set, and epic war sequences. With cinematography by Arvind S. Kashyap and music by B. Ajaneesh Loknath, the team aims to recreate a divine cinematic experience.
Production Progress & Release Date
Filming began in November 2023, and as of July 2025, major portions including battle scenes and indoor schedules are wrapped. Despite on-set challenges—including a tragic accident involving a junior artist and a narrowly avoided mishap at Mani reservoir—production has stayed on track.
The official release date is October 2, 2025, perfectly timed for the Dussehra holidays. The film will be released in seven languages, making it a pan-India spiritual epic.
Final Word
With Kantara: Chapter 1, Rishab Shetty isn’t just telling a story—he’s building a legend. If the first film was a revelation, this chapter promises to be a full-blown resurrection of myth, valor, and faith.
