Tragic Loss for Kantara: Chapter 1 as Kalabhavan Niju Dies at 43

The film industry mourns the loss of Kalabhavan Niju, a talented mimicry artist and actor, who passed away at 43 from a heart attack while filming Kantara: Chapter 1. This tragic event adds to a series of unfortunate incidents linked to the film's production, raising concerns among cast and crew. Niju's recent work included a role in Marco, and he had auditioned for the upcoming film directed by Rishab Shetty. The film, a prequel to the successful Kantara, is set to release in October 2025. Read on to learn more about this heartbreaking news and the impact on the film community.
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Tragic Loss for Kantara: Chapter 1 as Kalabhavan Niju Dies at 43

Heartbreaking News from the Set of Kantara: Chapter 1

The production of Kantara: Chapter 1 has been struck by a devastating event. Kalabhavan Niju, a well-known mimicry artist and actor hailing from Kerala, tragically passed away at the age of 43 due to a heart attack in Bengaluru on Thursday night.


As reported by local media, Niju was staying at a homestay designated for the cast during the ongoing filming when he suddenly experienced intense chest pain. Despite immediate attempts to transport him to a medical facility, he could not be revived. Fellow mimicry artist Kannan Sagar confirmed the unfortunate news, stating he learned of Niju’s death through a WhatsApp group message around 10:30 PM.


Niju's most recent appearance was in the film Marco, and he had reportedly auditioned for a part in Kantara: Chapter 1, which is directed by Rishab Shetty and produced by Hombale Films, known for their work on KGF and Salaar.


This incident is not the first tragedy associated with the film's production. Earlier this year, Kannada actor-comedian Rakesh Poojary passed away from cardiac arrest at a wedding at just 33 years old. Additionally, MF Kapil, a 32-year-old junior artist from Kerala, drowned in the Souparnika River during a shoot shortly before that. In November 2024, a minibus carrying 20 junior artists was involved in an accident in Mudoor, but fortunately, no one was harmed. Earlier, heavy rains had also caused damage to a grand set constructed for the film.


Overview of Kantara: Chapter 1

About Kantara: Chapter 1


This film serves as a prequel to the 2022 hit Kantara, directed by and starring Rishab Shetty. Set during the Kadamba dynasty's reign in Banavasi, the period drama also features actors Jayaram, Kishore, Jayasurya, and Jisshu Sengupta. The film is slated for release in theaters on October 2, 2025.


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