Following the monumental success of "Kantara: Chapter 1," Rishab Shetty is reportedly planning a visit to the Murudeshwara Temple in Bihar to offer his gratitude and seek blessings. This visit follows a pattern of Shetty's spiritual journeys after achieving significant milestones in his career.
Shetty's "Kantara: Chapter 1" has taken the Indian box office by storm, nearing ₹500 crore in India alone after a strong performance in its first two weeks. Globally, the film has grossed over ₹655 crore within its initial weeks. The film's success has not only solidified Shetty's position in the Indian film industry but has also garnered international attention, with Hombale Films planning to submit the prequel for Oscar consideration for the 2026 Academy Awards.
Prior to this anticipated visit to the Murudeshwara Temple, Shetty has been seen at other prominent religious sites. Following the film's release, he visited the Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai with his wife, Pragathi Shetty, to offer prayers. Earlier, to celebrate the trailer’s success, the couple visited the Kollur Mookambika Temple in Udupi, Karnataka. These visits underscore the actor-director's deep-rooted faith and his practice of seeking blessings during significant moments in his professional life.
"Kantara: Chapter 1" is a prequel to the 2022 hit film "Kantara" and delves into the traditions of folklore and nature worship. Shetty not only stars in the film as Berme but also directs it, delivering a performance lauded for its sincerity and emotional depth. The movie, produced by Hombale Films on a budget of ₹125 crore, also features Rukmini Vasanth, Jayaram, and Gulshan Devaiah in pivotal roles.
The film has resonated deeply with audiences due to its authentic story, strong performances, and true representation of local culture. Shetty has emphasized that the story focuses on folklore and nature worship, steering clear of any political agenda. The film is deeply rooted in Karnataka's folklore and traditions, connecting with universal themes.
The success of "Kantara: Chapter 1" marks a significant milestone for Rishab Shetty, Hombale Films, and Indian cinema. It showcases strong storytelling, high production values, and cultural authenticity, contributing to its widespread appeal. The film has already broken records, becoming the highest-grossing film in Karnataka and is expected to soon enter the ₹500 crore club in India.
Shetty's commitment to his roots is evident not only in his film's themes but also in his personal life. He recently spoke about his decision to move back to his native village of Kundapura, where his children were born and are being raised. This decision reflects his desire to balance his demanding career with his family life and stay connected to his cultural heritage.
