'Kantara: Chapter 1' poster unveiled on Rishab Shetty’s birthday; Shoot wrapped, release announced

On the occasion of Rishab Shetty’s birthday, the makers of 'Kantara' has gifted fans a spectacular new poster of their highly anticipated prequel, Kantara: Chapter 1, which is all set to roar into cinemas worldwide on October 2, 2025.The newly released poster features Rishab Shetty in a fiery and primal look, mid-air in a battle stance, oozing raw intensity. The poster was shared with the caption, "Where legends are born and the roar of the wild echoes… #Kantara – A prequel to the masterpiece that moved millions. Wishing the trailblazing force behind the legend, @rishabshettyofficial a divine and glorious birthday. The much-awaited prequel to the divine cinematic phenomenon… #KantaraChapter1 roars into cinemas worldwide on October 2nd, 2025.

ದಂತಕಥೆಯ ಮುನ್ನುಡಿ… ಆ ನುಡಿಗೊಂದು ಪರಿಚಯ… ಮನದಾಳದ ಕಥೆಗೆ ಮತ್ತೊಮ್ಮೆ ಸ್ವಾಗತ."

Clad in tribal warrior gear, with a battle axe in one hand and a shield in the other, his face reflects both divine fury and ancient power.Behind him, a blazing ring of fire bursts forth. it is embedded with tribal symbols and swirling mythic elements, casting the entire frame in burning hues of red, gold, and orange. It’s a breathtaking tease of what’s to come.

Kantara’s legacy continues: The rise before the roarFollowing the phenomenal success of 'Kantara' (2022), which became one of Indian cinema’s biggest sleeper hits, 'Kantara: Chapter 1' promises to be even more immersive and grand. While the original explored the mysticism rooted in coastal Karnataka, the prequel will take us to the very origins of that legend, offering a deeper dive into the folklore and spirituality that made the first film a cultural milestone.

ETimes gave the first part a rating of 4 stars and our review reads, "The film is a visual grandeur. DOP Aravind Kashyap has done a brilliant job with lighting and frames. A lot of attention is given to the making, which is dipped in folklore. Situational village comedy works well for the film. The film explores the culture of Tulunadu without any compromise. B Ajaneesh Loknath’s music is soothing. With plenty to savour for both mass and class audience, Kantara undoubtedly makes for a wonderful theatrical experience."With the poster already going viral, ‘Kantara: Chapter 1’ is not just a prequel—it’s surely going to be a milestone in Indian cinema.