Kantara 2, officially titled “Kantara: Chapter 1,” was released globally on 2 October 2025 and is one of the most ambitious Indian films of the year. The film, written and directed by Rishab Shetty, serves as a grand prequel to the 2022 blockbuster and delves into the origins of its mystical legend, garnering strong early reviews for its scale and performances.
Release Date and Wide Launch
Kantara: Chapter 1 hit cinemas worldwide on October 2, 2025, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti and Dussehra holidays. The film has been released in multiple languages including Kannada, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Bengali, English, and Spanish, maximizing its reach across India and international markets.
Story and Plot
The prequel sets its story in pre-colonial coastal Karnataka, unraveling the roots of the Bhuta Kola traditions and the central tribe’s divine connections. Rishab Shetty plays Berme, a tribal leader who clashes with King Kulashekara (Gulshan Devaiah) in a dramatic tale of power, folklore, and spirituality. The narrative spotlights ancestral struggles, divine justice, and the interplay between man and nature.
Cast and Crew
The movie stars Rishab Shetty, Rukmini Vasanth (as Kanakavathi), Gulshan Devaiah (as King Kulashekara), and Jayaram in lead roles, with an ensemble cast for supporting characters. Directed by Rishab Shetty, the film is produced by Vijay Kiragandur and Chaluve Gowda under Hombale Films, with B. Ajaneesh Loknath composing the soundtrack.
Advanced Booking and Social Response
Kantara: Chapter 1 witnessed robust advance bookings, accumulating over Rs 20 crore before release, with expectations of strong box office growth during the Dussehra holiday run. The trailer, featuring intense action and folklore-driven drama, has been widely appreciated. Early viewers have praised the visual effects, music, and the commanding performance by Rishab Shetty.
Visuals and Action
The production features spectacular war sequences shot with international choreographers, involving more than 500 trained fighters and a cast of over 3,000. The action, visual effects, and sound design are being hailed as some of the best in recent Indian cinema, providing an immersive experience for viewers.