Kantara: Chapter 1 Gets a Powerful New Poster on Rishab Shetty’s Birthday, Set for October 2, 2025 Release

Actor-filmmaker Rishab Shetty turned 42 on Monday, and to mark the occasion, the makers of Kantara: Chapter 1 released a striking new poster of the upcoming prequel.

The film, a precursor to the National Award-winning Kantara, is set to hit theatres on October 2, 2025, in multiple languages including Kannada, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Bengali.

New Poster Unveiled

The latest poster features Rishab Shetty in an intense warrior avatar, mid-action with an axe and shield, set against a dramatic background of fire and explosions.

The poster showcases the title “Kantara” in bold, stylised letters at the bottom, symbolising the grand scale of the film.

Accompanying the poster, the makers shared a note: “Where legends are born and the roar of the wild echoes…#Kantara – A prequel to the masterpiece that moved millions.

Wishing the trailblazing force behind the legend, @rishabshettyofficial a divine and glorious birthday. The much-awaited prequel to the divine cinematic phenomenon…#KantaraChapter1 roars into cinemas worldwide on October 2nd, 2025.”

First Look Teased Earlier

In November last year, the first look of Kantara: Chapter 1 was revealed on Instagram.

It featured Rishab in a powerful and intense appearance, holding an axe in one hand and a trident in the other. His long hair, beard, and shirtless look added depth to the character’s raw persona.

The caption accompanying the image read, “The moment has arrived. The divine forest whispers. #KantaraChapter1 Worldwide Grand Release on October 2, 2025.”

Rishab’s Gratitude for National Award

Rishab Shetty, who directed and played the lead in Kantara, was honoured with the National Award for Best Actor for his role.

The film was also awarded Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment at the 70th National Film Awards.

Reacting to the recognition, Rishab told ANI, “I am truly overwhelmed by the honour of this National Award for Kantara. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been part of this journey, the incredible team of artists, technicians and especially Hombale Films.”

He added, “The audiences have made this film what it is and their support fills me with a deep sense of responsibility. I am committed to working even harder to bring an even better film to our viewers.”

About Kantara and Its Upcoming Prequel

Kantara (2022), directed by Rishab Shetty, told the story of a Kambala champion and his conflict with a forest officer in a fictional village in Dakshina Kannada.

The cast included Sapthami Gowda, Kishore, and Achyuth Kumar. The film gained immense popularity and is currently streaming on Netflix and Prime Video.

Hombale Films, which backed the original film, is producing Kantara: Chapter 1, with Rishab Shetty once again at the helm as writer, director, and lead actor.

The upcoming film promises to explore the origins of the Kantara universe, delving deeper into the lore that captivated millions.

Hombale Films’ Birthday Tribute

On Rishab’s birthday, Hombale Films released the new poster on social media, stating, “Where legends are born and the roar of the wild echoes…‘Kantara’, – A prequel to the masterpiece that moved millions.”

They continued, “Wishing the trailblazing force behind the legend, Rishab Shetty, a divine and glorious birthday. The much-awaited prequel to the divine cinematic phenomenon ‘Kantara: Chapter 1’ roars into cinemas worldwide on October 2nd, 2025.”

Production Challenges and Upcoming Release

The production of Kantara: Chapter 1 faced several setbacks, including intervention from forest authorities, a capsized boat, and the unfortunate death of a junior artist.

Despite these challenges, the team ensured the project remained on schedule for its intended release on Gandhi Jayanti and Dussehra.

The film is co-produced by Vijay Kiragandur and Chaluve Gowda under the banner of Hombale Films.

To bring the war sequences to life, the makers enlisted national and international action experts, over 500 trained fighters, and involved 3,000 people for an epic battlefield sequence.

Looking Ahead

With Kantara: Chapter 1, Hombale Films aims to elevate the legacy of the original movie and deliver a cinematic experience steeped in folklore, action, and cultural depth. The film’s October 2 release is eagerly anticipated by fans across languages and regions.