Kantara: Chapter 1 Review: Rishab Shetty Unearths the Divine Origin of a Legend! !!

Kantara: Chapter 1 is not just a film; it is a primal roar that echoes through the deepest forests of Indian folklore. Serving as the much-anticipated prequel to the 2022 blockbuster Kantara, director and star Rishab Shetty returns to the mystical world of Tulunadu, this time to trace the ancient origins of the Daivas and the legendary Bhoota Kola ritual.

 

The film has taken the box office by storm, opening to a massive ₹60-65 crore on Day 1 across India, solidifying its position as one of the biggest pan-India successes of the year. Backed by Hombale Films, Chapter 1 is a visual and spiritual spectacle that manages to deliver the goosebumps of its predecessor while carving a grand new mythological path.

 

Plot: The Genesis of the Divine Protector

 

Set centuries before the events of Kantara, during the reign of the Kadamba Dynasty (around 300 CE), Chapter 1 tells the story of Berme (Rishab Shetty), a fierce and eccentric tribal warrior. Berme’s people live in harmony within the sacred Kantara forest, protected by the divine spirits Panjurli and Guliga.

 

The narrative revolves around the conflict ignited when the new, avaricious King Kulashekara (Gulshan Devaiah) attempts to encroach upon the tribal land, the 'Eshwarana Hoothota' (God's Garden). Berme's uprising against royal tyranny and the exploitation of natural resources forms the core of the drama, eventually leading to a mythical confrontation where the human champion is transformed by divine power.

 

Rishab Shetty: Actor, Director, and Mythmaker

 

The film’s triumph rests entirely on the shoulders of Rishab Shetty. His dual role as writer-director and protagonist Berme is a masterclass in committed filmmaking. As Berme, Shetty delivers a physically demanding and emotionally charged performance, particularly in the phenomenal action sequences and the climactic sequence of divine possession, which critics are hailing as even more ferocious than the original.

 

Shetty's direction is ambitious, using a much larger canvas and budget than Kantara. The world-building is impeccable, bringing the medieval setting to life with authenticity. While the sheer amount of plot sometimes makes the first half feel uneven, the stunning visuals by cinematographer Arvind S. Kashyap and the thunderous, evocative score by B. Ajaneesh Loknath ensure the narrative momentum never truly breaks.

 

The Spectacle and the Soul

 

Chapter 1 is high on spectacle. From jaw-dropping action choreography to top-tier VFX that brings the mythological elements to life, the film is designed for the theatrical experience. The theme of man's greed versus the preservation of nature and culture remains intact, though this prequel often focuses more on Berme’s hero’s journey than the profound spiritual connection that grounded the first film.

 

The supporting cast, including Rukmini Vasanth as the enigmatic Princess Kanakavathi and the commanding presence of Jayaram, add layers of intrigue and political depth to the royal court.

 

Verdict: A Roaring Success

 

Kantara: Chapter 1 is a cinematic achievement that successfully expands the universe of a beloved franchise. It's a raw, powerful, and visually overwhelming experience that connects modern storytelling with ancient folk culture.

 

Go for the sheer scale, the booming sound design, and the unforgettable transformation of Rishab Shetty. This is more than a movie; it’s a spellbinding festival of faith, deserving of its blockbuster status.

 

A must-watch for fans of mythology, action, and high-stakes pan-India cinema.