The mystique of the coastal forest spirits isn’t resting just yet. Rishab Shetty, who took Kannada cinema to the global stage with Kantara, has officially confirmed that the franchise is set to return with Kantara 3.

The actor-filmmaker, along with his wife Pragathi Shetty, was recently in Thiruvananthapuram to attend the wedding of Malayalam actor Ahaana Krishna. During their trip, the couple visited the iconic Sree Padmanabhaswamy and Attukal Bhagavathy temples. Interacting with media there, Rishab addressed the question that has lingered ever since the climactic tease at the end of Kantara: Chapter 1.

When quizzed about the timeline and nature of the third outing, Rishab said, "Yes, Kantara 3 is definitely on the cards. Just as we teased in Kantara: Chapter 1, the sequel will be made. When it will hit the screens and how it will take shape is something I cannot reveal at this point. When the time is right, everything will be out in the open."

Before he steps back into the sacred grove of the Daivas, Rishab has his hands full with another massive pan-India project, Prasanth Varma’s Jai Hanuman, a key entry in the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU). Sharing a quick status update on the production, he noted, "Right now, my complete focus is on Jai Hanuman. We have already wrapped two crucial shooting schedules, and the shoot is progressing smoothly."

Rishab also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to audiences in Kerala, who embraced both the 2022 breakout Kantara and its prequel Kantara Chapter 1 with equal fervor. "We are extremely thankful to the Malayalam audience for showering us with so much love. It brings immense joy when your hard work is received so warmly," he remarked, highlighting the cross-industry collaboration. "The Kannada and Malayalam industries share a great creative rapport. In fact, a significant portion of our technical crew on Kantara hails from Kerala."

The creative synergy was particularly visible in Kantara: Chapter 1, which incorporated Kerala’s traditional martial art form, Kalaripayattu, featuring extensive training from local masters. The film also saw veteran Malayalam star Jayaram play a crucial role.

While fans will have to wait a little longer for Rishab to sound the conch for Kantara 3, the filmmaker’s update confirms the lore is far from concluded.