Kantara Chapter 1 storms box office with ₹370 crore worldwide in 5 days

Rishab Shetty’s Kantara Chapter 1 is off to a roaring start at the global box office. Released in theatres on October 2, the highly anticipated prequel to the 2022 hit Kantara has already raked in ₹370 crore worldwide within just five days of release, signaling another massive blockbuster from Hombale Films.

The film had a phenomenal opening weekend, particularly in Karnataka, where it posted record-breaking numbers. Domestically, Kantara Chapter 1 has collected a net total of ₹255.75 crore, with the gross Indian collection reaching ₹307 crore. Overseas, the film added another ₹63 crore (approximately $7 million), bringing the global total to ₹370 crore. With these numbers, the film has already surpassed the lifetime worldwide earnings of Pushpa: The Rise (₹350.1 crore), starring Allu Arjun.

The film is now on track to potentially overtake the first Kantara movie, which grossed ₹407.82 crore globally during its theatrical run and remains the second-highest-grossing Kannada film of all time. However, the big question remains—can Kantara Chapter 1 match or exceed the staggering ₹1215 crore global earnings of KGF Chapter 2, the current record-holder among Kannada films?

Directed by and starring Rishab Shetty, Kantara Chapter 1 serves as a prequel to the original and dives deeper into the rich cultural lore of coastal Karnataka. Set in the pre-colonial era, the story follows Berme (played by Rishab), a tribal warrior fighting for the autonomy of his people. His resistance brings him into direct conflict with the region’s rulers, particularly Prince Kulashekara (Gulshan Devaiah), who seeks to suppress the tribal uprising. The film also stars Jayaram as King Rajashekara and Rukmini Vasanth as Princess Kanakavathi.

Building on the mysticism and tradition of Bhuta Kola introduced in the first film, Kantara Chapter 1 expands the cinematic universe with richer backstories and hints at more installments to come. With strong word of mouth and an expanding audience, the film is poised for a historic run in the weeks ahead.