The 2021 film Kantara became a landmark in Kannada cinema, produced on a modest budget of 15 crore INR but grossing over 400 crore INR, creating a nationwide sensation. Building on this success, Kantara Chapter 1, a prequel directed and starred in by Rishab Shetty, is currently in production under Hombale Films. However, the filming process has been marred by numerous accidents and delays, sparking rumors of a ‘curse’ looming over the set.
Chaluve Gowda, co-producer of Hombale Films, shared insights into these challenges. Before shooting began, the team performed rituals to seek blessings from Panjurli Daiva, a revered deity in coastal Karnataka.
According to Gowda, the deity issued a warning: You may proceed with the film, but expect obstacles, though it will ultimately succeed. These words resonate with the incidents that unfolded during production. Gowda emphasized, “We are all devotees. Every day, we begin work with prayers and the deity’s blessings.
The production faced several mishaps. In November 2024, a bus carrying crew members met with an accident near Kollur, fortunately without serious injuries. In January 2025, a fire broke out on set during a war sequence shoot. In April 2025, a crew member tragically drowned in the Souparnika River while swimming.
In June, a boat carrying Rishab Shetty and other artists capsized, though no one was harmed. Additionally, two artists passed away due to heart attacks. These incidents fueled speculation of a ‘curse’ on the Kantara Chapter 1 set.
Gowda dismissed these claims, stating, “Apart from the fire incident, no accidents occurred directly on set. The film’s large scale has led to these events being linked together.” The shooting took place in the dense forests of coastal Karnataka, a challenging location.
Gowda explained, “80% of the filming was done in remote, natural settings. Waking up at 4 AM and starting shoots by 6 AM was tough. Unexpected rains forced us to film some action sequences in the downpour.”
Despite these hurdles, the filming wrapped up in July 2025. The movie is now in post-production and is set for release on October 2, 2025. Alongside Rishab Shetty, the cast includes Jayaram, Rakesh Poojary, and Rukmini Vasanth. Gowda reflected, “The delays tested our patience at times, but seeing the final outcome makes it all worthwhile.”