Kantara Chapter 1 Box Office Collection and Review: Will It Outshine KGF and RRR?
This analysis of the Kantara Chapter 1 box office collection examines early earnings, audience response, and critical reviews—breaking down whether the film has the strength to outshine blockbusters like KGF and RRR.
Introduction
The Kantara Chapter 1 box office collection and review have become one of the most discussed topics in Indian cinema today. After the success of the original Kantara (2022), expectations were sky-high, and the prequel has stormed into theatres with record-breaking numbers.
With its unique mix of folklore, powerful performances, and Rishab Shetty’s storytelling, audiences are flocking to theatres across India. But how much has it collected? And is the film worth the hype? Let’s dive in.
What is Kantara Chapter 1 ?
Kantara Chapter 1 is the prequel to Kantara (2022), directed by Rishab Shetty. The story dives into the spiritual and cultural roots of the Deva Daiva traditions shown in the first movie.
- Language: Released in Kannada, with dubbed versions in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam.
- Cast: Rishab Shetty in the lead, with Sapthami Gowda in a supporting role.
- Budget: Estimated ₹120 crore, making it one of the most expensive Kannada films.

Latest Update: Box Office Performance
According to early trade reports:
- Day 1 Collection (India): ₹28 crore (nett)
- Day 2 Collection: ₹30 crore (nett)
- Opening Weekend: ₹85 crore (nett, India)
- Worldwide Gross: ₹110 crore+ within 3 days
Regional Highlights:
- Karnataka: Record-breaking houseful shows.
- Hindi Belt: Strong urban collections, especially Mumbai and Delhi.
- Overseas: UAE and USA screenings contributed ₹15 crore.
Review: Audience and Critics Speak
What Worked
- Cultural Depth: Strong portrayal of Bhoota Kola traditions.
- Cinematography: Breathtaking visuals of forests and rituals.
- Performance: Rishab Shetty delivers a powerful role.
What Didn’t Work
- Slow Pacing in the first half.
- Niche Appeal may limit repeat audiences outside South India.
Verdict: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
A must-watch for lovers of folklore cinema and Rishab Shetty fans.
Why Kantara Chapter 1 Matters
- It cements Kannada cinema’s rise after KGF and Kantara.
- It expands the “Kantara Universe” with more stories rooted in Indian folklore.
- It shows that films with cultural depth can compete with mainstream Bollywood and pan-India blockbusters.

Kantara vs Other Box Office Giants
| Film | Opening Weekend (India) | Worldwide Gross |
|---|---|---|
| Kantara Chapter 1 | ₹85 crore | ₹110 crore+ |
| KGF Chapter 2 | ₹193 crore | ₹230 crore+ |
| RRR | ₹135 crore | ₹180 crore+ |
| Kantara (2022) | ₹15 crore | ₹30 crore |
Kantara Chapter 1 may not match KGF 2 yet, but it has shown remarkable growth compared to the first Kantara.
Practical Takeaways for Viewers
- Book tickets early — houseful shows are common in South India.
- Watch in theatres for the authentic sound design.
- Expect global streaming release after 8–10 weeks.
- If you loved Kantara (2022), this prequel provides deeper context.
FAQs
Q1: What is the box office collection of Kantara Chapter 1?
The film collected over ₹85 crore in its opening weekend in India and ₹110 crore worldwide.
Q2: Is Kantara Chapter 1 better than the first Kantara?
Critics say it offers more cultural depth but has a slower pace compared to the 2022 film.
Q3: Who is the director of Kantara Chapter 1?
Rishab Shetty directs and also plays the lead role.
Q4: Will there be Kantara Chapter 2?
Yes, reports suggest Rishab Shetty is planning further chapters in the Kantara Universe.
Key Takeaways
- The Kantara Chapter 1 box office collection and review show a blockbuster opening.
- Strong audience response in Karnataka and global markets.
- Rishab Shetty continues to lead Kannada cinema’s cultural wave.
- Criticism: slower pacing but unmatched authenticity.
Conclusion
The Kantara Chapter 1 box office collection and review prove that regional cinema can dominate India’s big screen with storytelling rooted in culture. With ₹110 crore worldwide in just three days, the film is set to become a milestone in Indian cinema.