Kantara hits the ₹1500-crore mark, cementing Rishab Shetty’s historic feat in Indian cinema

The Kantara franchise has emerged as one of the most remarkable success stories in Indian cinema. Produced by Hombale Films, Kantara (2022) and Kantara: Chapter 1 (2025) together amassed over ₹1300 crore in worldwide theatrical revenue. When digital, satellite, and ancillary rights are included, the franchise’s total valuation is estimated at nearly ₹1500 crore- an extraordinary achievement for a property rooted in regional storytelling.

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One Man, Three Roles, One National Impact

What elevates Kantara beyond commercial triumph is Rishab Shetty’s rare creative command. Indian cinema has long admired artists like Guru Dutt, Raj Kapoor, Ashok Kumar, Shankar Nag, Upendra, and Kamal Haasan- figures who seamlessly balanced writing, directing, and acting.

However, in the contemporary pan-Indian era defined by multilingual releases and nationwide reach, Shetty stands apart. By scripting, directing, and leading both Kantara films, he has become the only Indian filmmaker to achieve large-scale, multi-language success at a national level in all three capacities.

A Local Story That Found Universal Echo

Released in 2022, Kantara was deeply anchored in Kannada culture, folklore, and spiritual traditions. What began as a region-specific narrative soon transcended linguistic boundaries, earning over ₹450 crore globally. Its sustained theatrical run, powered by strong word of mouth and cultural authenticity, challenged entrenched notions about the commercial limits of regional cinema.

The prequel, Kantara: Chapter 1, expanded the mythos and emotional scale of the universe. With worldwide earnings of approximately ₹850 crore, it ranked among the highest-grossing Indian films of 2025, drawing audiences across South India, the Hindi belt, and international markets.

Success Without a Financial Blueprint

Despite the staggering numbers, Shetty emphasizes that the journey was never driven by commercial calculation. Shetty said, “This was not something done with intention. The first part of Kantara just happened. With Kantara: Chapter 1, we wanted to dive deeper into the world and the franchise.”

Learning From Legends, Walking His Own Path

Addressing comparisons with past cinematic greats, Shetty acknowledges a wide spectrum of influences. “There are so many influences- from Shankar Nag and Upendra to filmmakers like Raj Kapoor. I have learned from every filmmaker who has shaped their industry, and I’ve grown by viewing cinema from all perspectives,” he said.

What’s Next for the Kantara Creator

While 2026 will see Shetty prioritising acting- beginning with Jai Hanuman from the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe- he makes it clear that direction remains integral to his identity.

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“I might be busy with acting jobs, but behind the scenes, I’m preparing for my next directing project. That work will never stop- only the directing will take some time,” he says, adding that “a surprise is coming” and will be revealed soon. 

Notably, Rishab Shetty also has The Pride Of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, with Vivek Oberoi playing Aurangzeb.