Kantara Chapter 1

Language(s): Kannada

Genre: Action, Thriller

Release Date: 02/10/2025

Director: Rishab Shetty

Cast: Rishab Shetty, Rukmini Vasanth, Gulshan Devaiah, Jayaram, Pramod Shetty

Duration: 2 Hours 49 Minutes

Rating:  4.5 / 5

Set in the mystical forest of Eeswara Poondottam, the story revolves around the lives of a mountain tribe and their sacred land — Kantara. The forest becomes the target of both deceitful outsiders and the powerful Pangara Kingdom, who conspire to seize it. The film follows how the tribal people, alongside the protagonist, defend their land from evil forces. Rishab Shetty’s Kantara (2022) was a massive hit both critically and commercially. Hence, the anticipation and expectations for this sequel were sky-high.

The film begins in the Pangara Kingdom, ruled by a tyrant king who enslaves commoners. His greed turns toward the divine forest of Eeswara Poondottam. When the king attempts to conquer it, he is mysteriously killed. His son, Rajasekaran, survives with the help of the Kadambaras — another forest-dwelling tribe — and later ascends the throne. He has two children: Kulasekaran and Kanagavathi.

Meanwhile, a child named Perme (the protagonist) is found near a sacred well in the forest and raised lovingly by the villagers. Years later, Rajasekaran crowns his son Kulasekaran, who grows into an irresponsible ruler. His reckless decisions lead to conflict between the Kantara tribes and Perme. A major battle scene unfolds, and several youths from Kantara are captured. While in captivity, they discover the forest’s immense natural wealth and plan to exploit it.

Perme meets Kanagavathi, and love blossoms between them. Guided by her, he ventures into trade. Later, Perme learns about the Kadambaras — a tribe seeking divine powers within the forest. Another fierce fight follows, and a shocking twist caused by Kulasekaran changes the course of the story.

In the climactic finale, Perme — with divine intervention — fights a mighty battle to save his land, people, and faith.

Rishab Shetty, Jayaram, Rukmini Vasanth, and Gulshan Devaiah deliver powerful performances. The spiritual undertone of the film enhances their screen presence. Pramod Shetty and Rakesh Poojari add moments of humor and emotional depth. Many crew members from the first Kantara film returned, ensuring continuity in tone and quality. The first half explores themes of slavery, tyranny, and the suffering of commoners. The screenplay blends action, loss, humor, romance, and spirituality. The film’s midpoint twist grips the audience, keeping them on the edge of their seats.

Rishab Shetty’s direction focuses less on glamour and more on storytelling depth and cultural essence. Shot entirely in dense forest regions, showcasing the raw beauty of nature with breathtaking visuals. Ajaneesh Loknath’s music perfectly complements the film’s emotional and spiritual tone. Although the first half moves slowly, the pacing picks up after the interval with intense sequences. VFX by Mill and MPC studios is top-notch. Action scenes are crafted impressively and enhance the grandeur of the film.

Over 300 crew members worked in the forests without major mishaps — a commendable feat. The interval scene is as thrilling as the climax. Rukmini Vasanth’s surprising negative twist adds strength to the plot. Rishab Shetty’s dual-layered performance — especially his divine transformation — is mesmerizing. The depiction of divine spirits in animal forms, especially the tiger sequences, is breathtaking. The climax, portraying Rishab Shetty as both Shiva and Kali, leaves the audience in awe.

The first half is relatively slow-paced, though it helps build tension later. The final battle, though visually stunning, feels slightly rushed. Several actors from the first Kantara reappear in new roles, which might feel repetitive. Jayaram’s role could have been given more depth and screen time.

9. Verdict

A magnificent spiritual drama — a must-watch for those who appreciate mythological and divine storytelling. Who will enjoy it: Fans of Rishab Shetty, families, children, and lovers of action and spirituality. “A visual and spiritual feast for fans; though for non-spiritual viewers, the long runtime might feel testing.”