The much-awaited prequel to the 2022 blockbuster Kantara has stormed the box office, with Kantara Chapter 1 minting an estimated ₹90 crore worldwide on its opening day. Released on October 2, 2025, the Rishab Shetty film has outperformed major hits like Saiyaara and the classic Baahubali in its debut earnings, confirming the massive popularity of the franchise.
A Massive Pan-India Opening
The film’s powerful opening in India saw collections of approximately ₹60 crore net, translating to about ₹72 crore gross domestically. The film was released in five languages, allowing it to connect with audiences across the country. The Hindi-dubbed version alone contributed a massive ₹18-20 crore to the total, a significant jump from the first film’s Hindi opening.
The film’s success was fueled by its wide release on the Dussehra/Gandhi Jayanti holiday. It had over 8,800 shows across India, with the original Kannada version recording an impressive 88% occupancy. The Telugu and Tamil versions also saw strong attendance with over 70% occupancy, proving the film’s pan-India appeal.
How It Stacks Up Against Other Blockbusters
The ₹90 crore worldwide opening has placed Kantara Chapter 1 ahead of several established box office giants. Its first-day collection is higher than the opening days of major films like Stree 2, Baahubali Part 1, and Brahmastra Part One.
In the Hindi market, the film’s opening of over ₹18 crore made it the seventh highest opener of 2025, surpassing the first-day numbers of Sky Force and Jolly LLB 3. It also scored the highest opening for a South Indian film in the Hindi belt in 2025. Trade analysts noted that for a dubbed South film, it now ranks as the seventh best opener ever in Hindi, behind major pan-India hits like Pushpa 2, KGF: Chapter 2, and RRR.
Among Kannada films, Kantara Chapter 1 now holds the record for the second-highest opening day collection in history, only behind the juggernaut KGF: Chapter 2.
Star Praise and Film Details
The film’s success has drawn reactions from across the industry. Top star Jr NTR took to social media to congratulate the team, saying:
“Congratulations to the team of #KantaraChapter1 on scoring a resounding success. @shetty_rishab sir pulled off the unthinkable by excelling both as a mindblowing actor and a brilliant director.”
Kantara Chapter 1 is written and directed by Rishab Shetty, who also stars in the lead role. The film is produced by Vijay Kiragandur and Chaluve Gowda under the Hombale Films banner. It serves as a prequel to the first film and is set a thousand years before the original’s events, exploring the deep-rooted origins of the folklore and conflicts.
Also Read: Kantara Chapter 1 Makers Deny Boat Accident Reports; Confirm Crew and Equipment Are Safe
