Kantara Chapter 1: The movie opened with a bang, collecting a massive Rs.61.85 crore on its first day. This figure marked the third-highest single-day collection of 2025. Maintaining strong momentum, it earned Rs.223.25 crore net in India within four days. By the end of its extended weekend, Kantara Chapter 1 had achieved a record-breaking Rs.325 crore worldwide gross. The film’s consistent performance across all language versions contributed heavily to its success.
Record-Breaking Achievements
Kantara Chapter 1 has shattered multiple records to become the highest-grossing Kannada movie of 2025 and the third-highest ever in the industry. It surpassed the lifetime earnings of KGF Chapter 1 (Rs.248 crore) and HanuMan (Rs.298 crore). The movie also sold over 1.28 million tickets on day one, with 98–99 percent occupancy in Karnataka. Trade experts predict that it might become the first Indian film of the year to cross the Rs.1000 crore mark.
Critical Reception and Audience Response
Though some reviews pointed out pacing issues, the majority of critics and audiences praised the movie’s visuals and storytelling. Rishab Shetty’s performance as Berme was appreciated for its emotional depth and intensity. The visual effects, especially in the climax and mythical sequences, received special attention. Fans flooded social media with positive reactions, calling the movie a “visual masterpiece” and Shetty a “brilliant storyteller.
Star Cast and Production Excellence
The movie features Rishab Shetty, Rukmini Vasanth, Jayaram, and Gulshan Devaiah in major roles. Set in the 4th century CE during the Kadamba dynasty, it tells the story behind the Bhuta Kola ritual and expands the mystical lore of the Kantara world. Produced by Hombale Films with a budget of Rs.125 crore, the film was shot on a massive scale. It includes large war sequences with over 500 fighters and massive palace sets built on 25 acres of land.
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Digital and Future Prospects
Amazon Prime Video purchased the digital streaming rights for Rs.125 crore, one of the highest deals for a Kannada movie. The film is expected to premiere digitally by October 30, 2025. With the end credits teasing Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 2, the franchise is now confirmed as a trilogy. This move ensures that the Kantara universe will continue to captivate audiences in the coming years.
Performance
Rishab Shetty’s direction and acting have been the film’s highlight, blending intense performances with high production value. The narrative combines folklore, spirituality, and drama in a way that appeals to both regional and global audiences. The movie’s balance of mythological depth and modern filmmaking has helped it gain massive popularity.
Other Features
The success of Kantara Chapter 1 reflects the growing power of regional films in Indian cinema. The attention to cultural detail, music, and traditional rituals gives the film an authentic identity. It bridges the gap between art and entertainment, proving that rooted stories can achieve global recognition.
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