In a resounding testament to its cinematic brilliance, Kantara: Chapter 1, directed by and starring Rishab Shetty, has taken the box office by storm, amassing an impressive ₹400 crores worldwide within just one week of its release on October 2, 2025. This mythological action film, produced by Hombale Films under Vijay Kiragandur, has not only captivated audiences but also earned high praise from Union Minister and former Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, cementing its place as a cultural and commercial juggernaut.
On October 7, 2025, Kumaraswamy, accompanied by his wife, Anitha Kumaraswamy, attended a screening of the film in New Delhi. Deeply moved by the experience, he took to X to share his admiration, describing Kantara: Chapter 1 as “a magnificent celebration of Kannada identity” and a “heartfelt portrayal of our cultural essence, deeply moving and profoundly authentic.” He further lauded the film for its “grand unveiling of Tulu Nadu’s rich traditions, spirituality, and divine heritage,” calling it a “masterpiece of imagination and artistry” that transcends words.
The film, featuring a stellar cast including Rukmini Vasanth, Jayaram, and Gulshan Devaiah alongside Shetty, has soared to become the third-highest-grossing Kannada film of all time and secured its spot among 2025’s blockbuster hits. Its meteoric rise has seen it surpass the box office records of other major releases like Coolie, Chhaava, and Saiyaara.
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In his heartfelt post, Kumaraswamy extended his congratulations to Shetty, Kiragandur, and the entire Hombale Films team for their “remarkable effort.” He expressed hope that the team would continue to produce works of such caliber, elevating Kannada cinema to global heights. In response, Hombale Films expressed their gratitude, stating that their hearts were filled with pride and appreciation for the minister’s kind words.
Kantara: Chapter 1 stands as a shining example of regional cinema’s ability to resonate universally, blending rich cultural narratives with cinematic excellence. As it continues to dominate the box office and garner accolades, the film is poised to leave an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
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