The cinematic world is buzzing with excitement as Kantara: Chapter 1, the much-awaited prequel to the 2022 blockbuster Kantara, gears up for its grand release on October 2, 2025. Directed by and starring the National Award-winning Rishab Shetty, this film promises to take Indian audiences on a thrilling journey back in time, diving deep into the mystical and cultural roots of coastal Karnataka. With its fiery new poster, heart-pounding action, and a story steeped in folklore, Kantara: Chapter 1 is shaping up to be a cinematic spectacle that celebrates India’s rich traditions and heroic spirit.
A Glimpse into the World of Kantara: Chapter 1
The original Kantara (2022) was a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences across India with its unique blend of folklore, spirituality, and raw emotion. Set in the fictional village of Dakshina Kannada, it told the story of Shiva, a Kambala champion, and his clash with a forest officer, all woven together with the divine rituals of Daivaradhane and Bhoota Kola. The film’s success, earning over ₹400 crore on a modest ₹16 crore budget, was a testament to its universal appeal and rooted storytelling. It also bagged the National Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment, with Rishab Shetty earning the Best Actor accolade.
Kantara: Chapter 1 takes us back to the origins of this gripping tale, set during the Kadamba period in Karnataka, a golden era known for its rich history and cultural contributions. This prequel explores the divine beginnings of the gods Panjurli and Guliga, whose spiritual presence was central to the first film. The story promises to unravel ancient legends, showcasing a world where tradition, valor, and mysticism collide in a breathtaking narrative.
Rishab Shetty’s Fierce Warrior Avatar
The recently unveiled poster of Kantara: Chapter 1, released on Rishab Shetty’s 41st birthday on July 7, 2025, has set social media on fire. In it, Rishab Shetty is seen as a fierce tribal warrior, leaping mid-air with a battle axe in one hand and a dented shield in the other. Smeared in mud and blood, with a streak of red across his forehead, his eyes burn with divine fury. The backdrop is alive with tribal symbols, roaring flames, and elements like a charging buffalo, a prowling tiger, and sacred ropes, hinting at a story rooted in rituals and survival.
This intense look is a glimpse of Rishab’s character, a warrior-seer who embodies both raw strength and spiritual energy. To prepare for this role, Rishab underwent a year-long training in Kalaripayattu, the ancient martial art from Kerala, along with horse riding and sword fighting. His dedication to authenticity is evident—he even spent silent days in a coastal ashram to understand the Bhoota Kola trance, ensuring his performance carries the same spiritual depth that made the original Kantara so powerful.
A Grand Cinematic Vision
Produced by Hombale Films, known for blockbusters like KGF and Salaar, Kantara: Chapter 1 is being crafted on a massive scale. The film features an ambitious war sequence, shot over 45-50 days in a 25-acre custom-built village set in Karnataka’s rugged hills. Over 500 trained fighters and 3,000 extras were involved, with action choreography blending Kalaripayattu with native fighting styles. International and Indian stunt experts have worked together to create what is being called one of the most epic war sequences in Indian cinema. The fire sequences, designed like rhythmic waves, add a dramatic flair to the visuals.
The film’s commitment to authenticity goes beyond action. Folk experts from Tulu Nadu guided the team on body paint, chants, drum rhythms, and costumes, while local artisans provided natural materials like timber and dyes, supporting nearby villages. This attention to detail ensures that Kantara: Chapter 1 stays true to the cultural heritage of coastal Karnataka, much like its predecessor.
A Story Rooted in Indian Culture
What made Kantara stand out was its ability to tell a universal story while staying deeply rooted in the traditions of Tulu Nadu. Kantara: Chapter 1 aims to take this further, diving into the origins of the divine folklore that captivated millions. Set in a time long before the events of the first film, it explores the bond between man, nature, and the divine, with themes of courage, spirituality, and resistance against invaders. The film will be released in multiple languages—Kannada, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Bengali—making it a true pan-India experience.
The music, composed by Ajaneesh Loknath, is expected to be another highlight. Just as the original Kantara used folk music to elevate its storytelling, this prequel will blend traditional Tulu Nadu instruments with modern sounds to create a soul-stirring score. The teaser, released in November 2024, ended with seven ragas representing the seven languages of the film, hinting at a rich and immersive auditory experience.
Challenges and Triumphs
The journey to bring Kantara: Chapter 1 to life hasn’t been without challenges. In June 2025, a boat carrying Rishab Shetty and 30 crew members capsized in Karnataka’s Mani Reservoir during a shoot. Thankfully, no one was injured, but the incident led to equipment losses and a police investigation. Despite such setbacks, Hombale Films has confirmed that the film is on track for its October 2, 2025 release, dispelling rumors of delays.
Rishab Shetty’s humility shines through despite the massive expectations. In an interview, he shared how audiences sometimes treat him with reverence, mistaking him for the divine Daiva he portrayed in Kantara. “I’m just an actor, not a divine entity,” he said, urging fans to reserve their reverence for the gods. His dedication to his craft and his roots in Karnataka’s culture make him the heart and soul of this project.
Why Indian Audiences Are Excited
Kantara: Chapter 1 is more than just a film—it’s a celebration of India’s cultural heritage, told through a lens of action, spirituality, and emotion. For Indian audiences, the film promises a connection to their roots, with a story that resonates with the values of tradition, bravery, and faith. The success of the original Kantara showed that stories rooted in local culture can have a universal appeal, and this prequel is set to take that legacy to new heights.
Fans on social media are already calling it “another ₹1000 crore blockbuster,” with many praising Rishab Shetty’s intense warrior look and the film’s grand scale. The release date, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti, adds to the festive excitement, ensuring packed theaters across the country.
A Cinematic Milestone in the Making
As Kantara: Chapter 1 prepares to roar into cinemas, it carries the weight of high expectations and the promise of a unique cinematic experience. With Rishab Shetty’s powerful performance, Hombale Films’ ambitious vision, and a story that blends tradition with valor, this prequel is poised to be a milestone in Indian cinema. Whether you’re drawn to its action-packed war sequences, its divine folklore, or its celebration of Karnataka’s culture, Kantara: Chapter 1 is set to be a film that leaves a lasting impact.
Mark your calendars for October 2, 2025, and get ready to step into a world where legends are born, and the roar of the wild echoes through time.