Exploring Spirituality and Folklore in Kantara: Chapter 1

A Deep Dive into Kantara: Chapter 1

Kantara: Chapter 1 explores profound themes of spirituality and faith, drawing inspiration from the vibrant folklore of coastal Karnataka. Rishab Shetty, the actor and director, emphasized that his goal was not to advocate for any specific ideology but to narrate a captivating story that resonates with shared human experiences.

Set against the backdrop of pre-colonial Karnataka, this Kannada film portrays the struggle between the indigenous tribes of the Kantara forest and a despotic king. Since its release on October 2, it has achieved remarkable success, amassing Rs 600 crore worldwide.

Shetty stated, "As a storyteller, I strive to maintain neutrality. Our narratives reflect our folklore, Bharatiyata, and the tradition of nature reverence." He clarified that there is no political agenda behind the film; it simply presents a story that audiences are connecting with.

Kantara: Chapter 1 acts as a precursor to the 2022 hit Kantara, which became a cultural sensation due to its authentic storytelling and ranks among the highest-grossing Kannada films. Co-written by Shetty, Anirudh Mahesh, and Shanil Guru, he aims to share experiences without imposing his beliefs on viewers. "Certain experiences, like temple prayers, are intimate. You feel them without necessarily discussing them. Our story conveys that experience, and interpretation is left to the audience," he elaborated.

Shetty's personal connection to spirituality is profound. "My mother is deeply religious, and I share that devotion. It’s woven into our lifestyle. I perform puja on set, honoring the camera before we begin filming." He acknowledged that the primary challenge with Kantara: Chapter 1 was developing a compelling narrative. "In Kantara, the plot was clear-cut — a man finds enlightenment through Daiva. However, Chapter 1 presents more intricate dynamics: What brings Berme (my character) here? What is his connection to the first king, Vijayendra? Establishing these relationships was a complex task," he shared, expressing gratitude to Hombale Films for their steadfast support.

Another challenge was the limited historical references for the depicted era. "We undertook thorough research, consulted numerous individuals, and integrated that knowledge into the narrative. The entire team worked diligently — from the cinematographer creating stunning visuals to the production designer crafting palaces, streets, and tribal environments," he noted.

Looking to the future, Shetty assured fans that the Kantara universe will continue to grow. However, he plans to begin work on a new film titled Jai Hanuman next year.