Bengaluru, Oct 2: Rishab Shetty’s much-awaited film Kantara Chapter 1, a prequel to his 2022 National Award-winning blockbuster, released in theatres today to a wave of excitement, fanfare, and early reviews that range from calling it “unmissable” to “overhyped.”
The film, also being referred to as Kantara 2, takes audiences back to the roots of the mystical folklore and cultural saga depicted in the first installment. One of the film’s highlights is an ambitious war sequence designed with the expertise of national and international stunt specialists, featuring more than 500 fighters and nearly 3,000 extras.
Audience and Industry Reactions
Early reactions on social media have been largely positive, with fans praising Shetty’s performance and the film’s grand scale. “#KantaraChapter1 is an experience no one should miss… the climax delivers a surreal cinematic high,” read one viral post on X (formerly Twitter).
Producer Ashwini Puneeth Rajkumar called it “a masterfully crafted cinematic experience” and lauded the film’s blend of folklore, faith, and emotion. Actor Jr NTR also joined in congratulating the team, applauding Shetty for excelling both as a director and an actor.
Box Office Buzz
Industry trade trackers predict a strong opening, with advance bookings crossing ₹12 crore gross by release eve, led by the Kannada version’s ₹7.5 crore. Overall, the film is expected to earn between ₹30–40 crore net in India on its opening day, with the Hindi belt contributing around ₹15–17 crore. While the numbers may fall short of mega pan-India launches like OG and Coolie, Kantara Chapter 1 is poised to surpass most major Bollywood releases this year.
Mixed Reviews
Despite the enthusiasm, some viewers have pointed out that the initial portions feel “dragged and uninteresting,” though most agree the film picks up momentum in its second half. The climax, in particular, has been described as a cinematic spectacle.
Shetty’s Message
At midnight, ahead of the release, Rishab Shetty posted a heartfelt message to his fans, thanking them for their unwavering support and promising an unforgettable experience at the theatres.
With sky-high expectations and nationwide buzz, Kantara Chapter 1 is now set to test its box office mettle while expanding on the legacy of one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated folk sagas.
