Rishab Shetty and Hombale Films have confirmed that Kantara Chapter 1 will release in cinemas on 2 October 2025. The film will have a nationwide release in partnership with PVR INOX, which means audiences across India can watch it on the same day.
The new film is a prequel to the 2022 hit Kantara, which became widely known for its mix of folklore, action, and mysticism. Rishab Shetty, who directed and starred in the original, returns to lead and direct the project. This time, the story will focus on the origins of the events that shaped the first film.
From August 14 (today), audiences watching Coolie and War 2 in PVR INOX theatres will see a special animated logo for Kantara: Chapter 1. The flame-themed design, created using digital projection technology, is meant to capture the tone of the film.
Sharing it on Instagram, Rishab wrote, “When the lights dim, the fire shall rise. Forged in legend, and in partnership with @hombalefilms the iconic #PVRINOX logo now ignites with the spirit of Kantara.”
Fans Want Kantara Chapter 1 Trailer
Soon after the post drop, social media was filled with comments from fans asking for the trailer. One person wrote, “Never been so impatient for any movie in life.”
Another said, “Start promotions, only 45 days left.”
A third user commented, “I want to see you and Tarak Anna in a single frame at the pre-release event.
Please make this happen.”
Others posted messages like “Trailer” and “Rishab sir Trailer.”
Producer On Reports Of Set Being ‘Cursed’
The making of Kantara Chapter 1 has faced several difficulties, and many even called the film set cursed. Producer Vijay Kiragandur told Hindustan Times that most of the reported problems were unrelated to the set. He said, “Except for one fire incident, which is the only thing that happened on set, everything else was unconnected.”
In November 2024, a bus carrying crew members had an accident near Kollur, Karnataka, but no one was injured. In January 2025, a fire broke out while filming a large war sequence, though everyone was safe. Four months later, a crew member drowned during a break in shooting. Then, in June, Rishab and other cast members were involved in a boat accident during a scene, escaping unharmed but losing some filming equipment.
Despite the setbacks, filming continued, and the release date remains unchanged. With just weeks to go, fans are now waiting for the trailer and more promotions before the film’s Gandhi Jayanti release.
