Rishab Shetty's ambitious prequel, Kantara: Chapter 1, stormed theaters worldwide on October 2, 2025, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti and Vijayadashami. The film, a dive into the origins of the original 2022 blockbuster's mythical lore, promises epic visuals and cultural depth rooted in Karnataka's folklore. Directed, written, and starring Shetty, it features Jayaram, Rukmini Vasanth, and Gulshan Devaiah in a tale set during the Kadamba dynasty era.
Early screenings have sparked mixed reactions from audiences and critics alike. Some hail it as a visual spectacle, with stunning CGI and action sequences that rival Hollywood blockbusters. Fans on social media rave about the chills from its mythological elements, calling it a "theater-worthy experience" that builds on the first film's success. Indeed, the prequel's grand scale, boasting a ₹125 crore budget, delivers on spectacle—think untamed wilderness and divine confrontations that grip viewers.
However, not everyone is convinced. Several reviews point to a weak storyline in the first half, where pacing drags amid setup-heavy narratives. Critics note that while Shetty's performance shines, especially in intense emotional beats, the plot feels overhyped, struggling to match the raw energy of its predecessor. One early take described it as "all that glitters is not gold," highlighting uneven scripting despite the film's polished production. Moreover, Twitter threads buzz with debates: some dismiss it as formulaic folklore, others predict another National Award for Shetty.
Box office numbers tell a different story of triumph. By just 4 p.m. on release day, Kantara Chapter 1 raked in ₹33 crore globally, signaling strong opening day potential. Distributed across multiple languages—Kannada, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and English—it benefits from wide reach, including IMAX and 4DX formats. Hombale Films, behind the original's ₹450 crore haul, seems poised for another hit, though sustaining momentum will be key amid the divided opinions.
Premiere cancellations in some regions added pre-release drama, shocking fans with sudden refunds, yet the film's cultural resonance appears to pull crowds. As the dust settles on this mythic sequel—er, prequel—what does it say about blending tradition with modern cinema in India's diverse landscape?