Kantara: Chapter 1, created and led by Rishab Shetty, is setting records worldwide one by one. Even after almost 20 days in theatres, the film continues to be in discussion and is bring in large crowds to theatres. Apart from playing the lead role as Berme, he has also portrayed the enigmatic role of the mysterious old Man, the guiding figure for Berme. While Rishab Shetty has mentioned in multiple discussions and interviews on his hard work and sleepless nights for the production and making of the period mythological action film, Hombale Films has shown his effort for the first time with an exclusive behind-the-scenes video.
The two-minute-long video is replete with montages of his intense transformation as Berme. Rishab is seen undertaking kalaripayattu lessons, along with heavy gym training and horse riding sessions. It also shows his multiple injuries, reflecting his dedication and commitment for the film.
Kantara: Chapter 1 has been winning unanimous praise for its narrative, performances, storytelling, craft and visual extravaganza. The film is currently inching closer to the Rs 800 crore mark worldwide and is set for a wider English release on October 31. It is produced by Vijay Kiragandur and Chaluve Gowda under Hombale Films. The production house has also planned to submit the prequel for Oscar consideration, aiming to share this uniquely Indian story with a global audience.
A prequel to the 2022 Rishab Shetty directorial, Kantara, the film also features the director in the lead role as Kaadubettu Shiva. Rukmini Vasanth, Gulshan Devaiah, and Jayaram are new additions to the cast, who are seen in prominent roles. Pramod Shetty, Rakesh Poojari, Prakash Thuminad, Deepak Rai Panaje, Hariprashanth MG, Shaneel Gautham and Naveen Bondel round out the cast of the film.
Kantara: Chapter 1, set during the Kadamba dynasty in pre-colonial Karnataka, follows the Bhuta Kola ritual, which became deeply rooted in the culture, laying the groundwork for the emergence of Kaadubettu Shiva. It dives into the reason behind the disappearance of Shiva's father and the history of Kantara - the forests and the deities in the area.