A Grand Opening for Rishab Shetty’s Prequel

Kantara: Chapter 1, directed and headlined by Rishab Shetty, has finally arrived on the big screen this Dussehra. Produced on a massive budget of ₹125 crore under Hombale Films, the movie serves as a prequel to the 2022 blockbuster Kantara. Shot primarily in Kundapura village, the film is a blend of myth, folklore, and action, with an epic runtime of 168 minutes.

Early Audience Reactions

Viewers who rushed to the theatres on release day were quick to share their reactions online. Many called the film’s second half a “goosebump-inducing spectacle,” with comparisons to Baahubali in terms of scale and execution. While some felt the first half tested their patience, most agreed that the climax more than made up for it.

One fan wrote, “The second half gave me chills. The story builds slowly, but when everything comes together, it is worth the wait. The divine BGM in the climax is unforgettable.” Another added, “Hollywood level VFX with atmospheric music, this is the kind of film that needs to be experienced on a giant screen.”

A Cinematic Spectacle of Folklore and Faith

The narrative dives deep into the ancient lore of Bhuta Kola rituals and the spiritual connection between man, nature, and the divine. Rishab Shetty plays a Naga Sadhu with superhuman powers, bringing intensity and rawness to the role. The cinematography and sound design have also received glowing reviews, with audiences recommending the film be watched in formats like IMAX, 4DX, or Dolby Cinema for maximum impact.

Box Office Buzz

Trade analysts have predicted a strong opening, with day one collections estimated between ₹12–15 crore nett in India. The release coincided with a national holiday, giving the film a solid push. Some reports suggest that if word of mouth remains strong, the film could even cross the ₹20 crore mark on its opening day.

Star Cast and Performances

Apart from Shetty, the film stars Jayaram, Rukmini Vasanth, Pramod Shetty, Gulshan Devaiah, and others in key roles. Each performance has been lauded for adding depth to the film’s larger-than-life storytelling.

Conclusion

Kantara: Chapter 1 is not just another film—it is a cultural experience that brings together mythology, spirituality, and cinematic grandeur. With rave reviews pouring in, the film looks set to dominate the box office in the coming weeks and may even surpass the success of its predecessor.

 

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