Rishab Shetty’s Kantara: Chapter 1 hit theatres a few days ago and quickly became a hot topic among audiences across India. The film received mixed to glowing reviews, with many calling it one of the strongest sequels in recent times. Viewers especially praised its rich visuals and cinematography.
The film opened with an impressive ₹61.85 crore on Day 1. The Kannada version earned ₹19.6 crore, while the Telugu version brought in ₹13 crore. The Hindi version made ₹18.5 crore, and the Tamil and Malayalam versions collected ₹5.5 crore and ₹5.25 crore respectively. Within just four days, Kantara: Chapter 1 crossed ₹220 crore, placing it among the year’s top 10 highest-grossing films.
While fans celebrated the success, a post-credit incident stirred controversy. A video from a theatre in Dindigul, Tamil Nadu, showed a fan dressed as a Daiva entering the hall and performing for the audience. The clip quickly spread online, with many calling it a planned PR stunt.
The video angered several viewers who felt that the sacred Tulunad Daivaradhane was misused for publicity and profit. Some even said that Daiva Narthaks, the traditional performers, would be deeply hurt to see their culture exploited this way. Many fans also criticised the idea of turning their god’s story into what they saw as a commercial sequel.
However, some defended Rishab Shetty, saying he wanted to share the story of Guliga with a wider audience. They believe Kantara: Chapter 1 gives a voice to traditions that deserve recognition beyond regional borders.
Faith-based storytelling often divides opinion. But creating a film about belief doesn’t mean your devotion has to waver. What matters is the intent behind the story and how it connects with you.
After the screening of Kantara Chapter 1 at a cinema in Dindigul, a fan dressed as a Daiva stunned the audience there.
Goosebumps
Thank you Divine star @shetty_rishab @hombalefilms for making such a Divine movie #KantaraChapter1 pic.twitter.com/sPd3bNmNHN
— ಸನಾತನ (@sanatan_kannada) October 5, 2025
