From Local Legend to Global Phenomenon: Rishab Shetty on the Secrets of the Kantara Universe

When Kantara hit theatres in 2022, it wasn’t just a blockbuster—it was a cultural storm that put Kannada cinema on the global map. Now, fans are eagerly waiting for the next chapter. While many are calling it Kantara 2, the official title is Kantara Chapter 1, a prequel that takes us centuries back to the roots of this mythic universe.

Releasing on 2nd October 2025 (Gandhi Jayanti), Kantara Chapter 1 promises to be bigger, bolder, and more primal. Directed, written, and headlined by Rishab Shetty, the film dives deep into the era of the Kadamba dynasty (345–525 CE), exploring the spiritual and cultural origins of the Daivakola tradition.

Whether you search for Kantara 2 or Kantara Chapter 1, one thing is certain: this is not just a film, it’s a cinematic event that continues the journey of a legend while taking audiences to its very beginning.

The Vision: Planned Before Success

Most people assume prequels are made only after a film becomes a hit. But for Rishab Shetty, Kantara’s world was always designed to be bigger. He had the stories long before the box-office storm of 2022.

The first film gave us Shiva. The prequel goes further back into a legend that started centuries ago.

Why Kantara Feels Universal, Even if It’s Hyper-Local

At the heart of Kantara is Daivakola, a ritual that many outside Karnataka had never even heard of. Yet, audiences from America to Japan said, “This feels like our own story.”

Why? Because it isn’t just about one village it’s about humanity’s oldest struggles:

• Man vs. nature

• Faith vs. greed

• Community vs. exploitation

Rishab explains it best: “In front of Daivakola, all people are equal.” This idea of equality, unity, and surrender before the divine is something that connects all cultures.

Kantara Chapter 1: A Dive into Ancient India

The trailer of Kantara Chapter 1 looks massive. This time, the story is set in the era of the Kadamba dynasty (345–525 CE).

• Bigger scale: Entire villages and cities were recreated inside forests, with minimal green screen.

• Intense war scenes: Filmed over 50 days with thousands of extras.

• Rishab’s transformation: His look and physical presence signal the raw, primal energy of this chapter.

It’s not just a prequel—it’s an epic.

Divine Energy and Rishab’s Filmmaking Style

Rishab Shetty often says there was divine intervention during the shoot. Dangerous stunts, exhausting war sequences, and still—things just clicked. He feels a higher energy was protecting the team.

On set, he told his crew: “You are entering the world of Kantara.” It wasn’t just work; it was an experience. At the end, he laughed and said: “Your torture is over now.”

This intensity is what makes his cinema feel alive. He believes cinema should uplift both the story and the artists working on it—a true “win-win.”

What’s Next for the Kantara Universe?

Fans keep asking: will we see Shiva again? Rishab isn’t giving away answers yet. But one thing is clear—he, along with Rakshit Shetty and Raj B. Shetty, are building stories that put Kannada cinema on the world map.

Kantara Chapter 1 is not just a film. It’s a cultural event. It’s India’s myth, land, and spirituality being unearthed for the world. Aapke Sawal, Hamare Jawab! (FAQs)

1. What is the release date of Kantara 2 (Kantara Chapter 1)?

Many fans are calling the prequel Kantara 2, but the official title is Kantara Chapter 1. The film will release in cinemas worldwide on 2nd October 2025 (Gandhi Jayanti).

2. Is Kantara 2 a prequel or sequel to the first movie?

Despite being popularly searched as Kantara 2, the movie is actually a prequel. It is set during the Kadamba dynasty (345–525 CE), exploring the origin of the Daivakola tradition and the ancient legend behind the Kantara universe.

3. What is the story of Kantara 2 / Chapter 1?

Kantara 2 (officially Chapter 1) goes back more than 1,500 years, telling a mythical origin story of kings, tribes, and divine forces. It features large-scale war sequences, ancient village life, and the primal conflict between man, nature, and faith.

4. What is Daivakola in Kantara and why is it important?

Daivakola is a ritual of Coastal Karnataka where performers channel divine spirits. It stands for justice, equality, and unity, as all people are seen equal before the deity. This ritual is the heart of the Kantara universe, making it relatable even for global audiences.

5. Why do people call Kantara Chapter 1 as Kantara 2?

Because Kantara Chapter 1 is releasing after the first Kantara film, many fans naturally call it Kantara 2. But officially, it is a prequel that goes back to the origin of the legend.

6. Will Rishab Shetty’s Shiva return in future Kantara films?

Director Rishab Shetty has hinted that Shiva’s story may not be finished. While Kantara Chapter 1 focuses on the past, fans could see Shiva again in a true Kantara 2 sequel later.