Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 3: Actor-filmmaker Rishab Shetty, who wrote, directed, and starred in Kantara Chapter 1, has expressed heartfelt gratitude after the Kannada film opened to overwhelming response at the box office. Released on Thursday, the film has already become a major success, with over 5,000 houseful shows reported on its opening day.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Shetty reflected on his journey from his struggles nearly a decade ago to the current success. He wrote, “From struggling to get one evening show in 2016 to 5000+ houseful shows in 2025. This journey is nothing but your love, support, and God’s grace. Forever grateful to every single person who made this possible. #KantaraChapter1.”

Rishab also recalled his directorial debut Ricky in 2016, which faced difficulties in securing screens. At the time, he had tweeted about finally getting a 7 PM show at Big Cinemas in Mangalore.

Fans poured in their reactions online, praising the film’s visuals, music, and depiction of Sanatan values. Many highlighted the Viswaroopam darshan scene, inspired by the Bhagwat Gita, and celebrated the film’s reach among non-Kannadiga audiences, reflecting the growing strength of Kannada cinema.

Kantara Chapter 1, a prequel to the 2022 blockbuster Kantara, has been released in multiple languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and English. According to Sacnilk, the film earned Rs 60 crore on its opening day. The film also stars Rukmini Vasanth, Jayaram, and Gulshan Devaiah.

Rishab Shetty began his career in 2012 with a villainous role in Tuglak, later appearing in films like Lucia and Ulidavaru Kandanthe before making his directorial debut with Ricky.