Rishab Shetty’s cinematic universe is expanding, but instead of moving forward, it’s taking us back to where the legend began. The much-awaited trailer for kantara: Chapter 1, a prequel to the 2022 global blockbuster, has been released, providing a stunning glimpse into the divine origin story that captured the hearts of millions.
A Deep Dive into the Divine Origins
The trailer, which was unveiled on September 22, has set social media ablaze with its stunning visuals, intense atmosphere, and profound connection to the original film’s folklore. The prequel is set in the ancient era of the Kadamba dynasty, around 300 CE, and explores the mythological roots of the sacred “Daiva” tradition and the “Bhuta Kola” ritual that captivated audiences in the first film.
The film’s narrative is a deep exploration of the spiritual heritage of coastal Karnataka. It delves into the history of the deities Panjurli Daiva and Guliga Daiva, revealing the circumstances that led to their worship and the ancient conflicts they were a part of. This isn’t just a story about a tribal man; it’s a cosmic saga tracing the journey of a divine protector.
Rishab Shetty, who has not only directed the film but also undergone a physical transformation for the lead role, portrays a fierce Naga Sadhu. His character is a mystic warrior destined to be the bridge between mortals and the divine, battling a tyrannical king named Kulashekara, played by Gulshan Devaiah. The trailer hints at a larger-than-life conflict, with Shetty’s character evolving from a man of the earth to a powerful entity possessed by divine energy. His performance, even in a brief glimpse, promises to be as raw and immersive as his portrayal of Shiva in the first installment.
Watch the official trailer below:
A Grand Cinematic Scale and Production Excellence
The prequel has been mounted on a much larger scale than the original, with a reported budget of ₹125 crore. The trailer’s visuals are a testament to this, showcasing breathtaking cinematography by Arvind S. Kashyap and an expansive world brought to life by production designer Banglan. This is a significant investment for a Kannada film, demonstrating the industry’s confidence in Shetty’s vision and the global appeal of the kantara franchise.
A major highlight is the colossal war sequence, which reportedly involves over 500 skilled fighters and 3,000 extras, making it one of the biggest action sequences in Indian cinema. The production team also faced real-world challenges during filming, including a near-fatal boat accident and a massive set being destroyed by wind, underscoring the immense dedication behind the project.
The film’s score, once again composed by B. Ajaneesh Loknath, is already being hailed as “goosebump-inducing.” The music plays a pivotal role in creating the trailer’s intense and spiritual atmosphere, promising to be a major highlight of the film itself. The sound design, handled by Rajakrishnan M. R., also contributes to the immersive experience, using powerful aural elements to tell the story of the ancient forest and its spiritual inhabitants.
Key Facts and Strategic Release
- Release Date: The film is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on October 2, 2025, a date strategically chosen to coincide with the Dussehra and Gandhi Jayanti holidays. The film will be released in multiple languages, including Kannada, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Bengali, and English, catering to its pan-Indian and international fan base.
- Star-Studded Release: The trailer’s launch itself was a pan-India event, with major stars like Hrithik Roshan, Prabhas, Prithviraj Sukumaran, and Sivakarthikeyan unveiling the dubbed versions. This marketing strategy was incredibly effective in creating a nationwide buzz, reminding audiences that kantara is no longer just a regional film, but a cinematic powerhouse.
kantara: Chapter 1 promises to be a powerful addition to the saga, offering a deeper understanding of the folklore that made the first film a masterpiece. It’s not just a prequel; it’s an ambitious cinematic spectacle that seeks to unravel the very origin of a myth, promising an experience that will resonate with audiences long after the credits roll.
