MOVIE DESK: Kantara Chapter 1: Mythic Roar Echoes ₹852 Cr
Rishab Shetty’s ambitious prequel to the 2022 hit Kantara has stormed the box office, raking in a jaw-dropping Rs.852 crore worldwide just one month after its October 2 debut.
This festive powerhouse has outpaced its predecessor and claimed the throne as 2025’s top earner so far.
Audiences can’t get enough of its raw blend of ancient lore and visceral drama.
Origins in the Shadows of Divinity
Plunging into the 4th-century AD world of Kantara’s sacred forests, the film traces the roots of faith and fury that fueled the original tale.
Shetty not only directs and pens the script but also anchors it with a performance that pulses with primal energy.
From divine pacts to clashes over untamed lands, every frame drips with cultural reverence.
The story unfolds like a ritual chant, pulling viewers into a realm where gods walk among mortals.
It’s no wonder theaters from Mumbai to Melbourne buzz with repeat viewings.
Behind the Lens: Craft That Captivates
Arvind S. Kashyap’s sweeping shots capture the wild beauty of coastal Karnataka, turning nature into a living character.
B. Ajaneesh Loknath’s score weaves folk rhythms with thunderous swells, amplifying the film’s spiritual core.
Together, they craft an immersive escape that lingers long after the credits.
Critics rave about this alchemy, calling it a fresh pinnacle for regional Indian cinema on the global stage.
A Cast That Breathes Life into Legend
- Rishab Shetty as the fierce guardian of ancient vows, channeling intensity in every glance.
- Sapthami Gowda bringing quiet strength to her role amid the chaos.
- Gulshan Devaiah adding layers of moral complexity to the unfolding power struggles.
- Rukmini Vasanth, Jayaram, PD Satish Chandra, and Prakash Thuminad rounding out a ensemble that feels authentically lived-in.
Produced by Vijay Kiragandur at Hombale Films, this team delivers authenticity that resonates across borders.
Triumphs and the Road Ahead
Doubling the original Kantara’s lifetime haul, Chapter 1 now ranks among India’s all-time box office giants.
Packed houses persist, fueled by word-of-mouth praise for its heartfelt dive into devotion and defiance.
As Diwali lights fade, the film’s glow shows no signs of dimming.
Come October 31, an English-dubbed version hits theaters worldwide, poised to hook even more fans into its timeless grip. This could spark a fresh wave of international acclaim.