Kantara Chapter 1 Becomes 2025’s Second-Biggest Blockbuster

Rishab Shetty’s highly anticipated prequel, Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1, has emerged as a box office phenomenon, claiming the position of 2025’s second-highest-grossing film. The Dussehra release has shattered records since its October 2 premiere, collecting Rs 336.50 crore within its first eight days.

The film has surpassed multiple benchmarks, including the lifetime collection of the original Kantara (Rs 309 crore) and Mohit Suri’s Saiyaara starring Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda (Rs 329.7 crore). Currently, only Vicky Kaushal’s Chhaava, which earned Rs 601.54 crore, stands ahead of Kantara Chapter 1.

Phenomenal Opening Weekend Performance

The film’s journey began with modest pre-release buzz, but advance bookings exploded a day before release, collecting Rs 30 crore. Opening day collections reached Rs 61.85 crore, followed by Rs 45.4 crore on day two and Rs 55 crore on day three. The first weekend concluded with Rs 63 crore on day four.

Despite a 50% drop on its first Monday to Rs 31.25 crore, the film rebounded on Tuesday with Rs 34.25 crore. Collections for Wednesday and Thursday stood at Rs 25.25 crore and Rs 20.50 crore respectively. According to extended first-week data, the film has already crossed the Rs 500 crore milestone.

What’s Next for Rishab Shetty

Following this success, Shetty will feature in Ashwin Gangaraju’s historical drama set in 18th-century Bengal, produced by Sithara Entertainments. The untitled project will release in Telugu, Kannada, Tamil, Hindi, and Malayalam. Additionally, the makers have announced Kantara Chapter 3, building anticipation for the franchise’s continuation.

The film’s stellar cast includes Gulshan Devaiah, Jayaram, and Rukmini Vasanth in pivotal roles.