Rishab Shetty’s upcoming film, Kantara Chapter 1, the much-anticipated prequel to his National Award-winning masterpiece Kantara, has landed in hot water amidst escalating controversies. The film, which is being shot in the scenic forested region near Gavigudda, Karnataka, has drawn ire from residents who have lodged serious complaints against the production team.

According to a report by India Today, locals, including a former Zilla Panchayat member, have accused the crew of violating environmental guidelines and overstepping their boundaries. They claim that while the team was permitted to film in grazing areas, they extended their shoot into the core forest region of Gavigudda, disturbing its natural habitat. Adding to the outrage, reports suggest that explosives were used during filming, raising concerns about the safety of the forest’s wildlife, which calls the area home.
The controversy deepened when Sanna Swamy, a Zilla Panchayat member, highlighted the dire impact of these activities. Swamy pointed out the rise in elephant attacks and other disruptions faced by villagers due to the invasive filming practices. Tensions reportedly boiled over when a confrontation between locals and the film crew turned violent, leading to a young local man being seriously injured. The victim had to be rushed to the hospital after being assaulted by a crew member.

This incident has fueled demands from the local community for the production to halt filming and relocate to a new site. They have also called for strict action against the crew for their alleged disregard for rules and aggressive behaviour.

While Kantara Chapter 1 was expected to build on the legacy of its predecessor, these controversies threaten to overshadow its production, leaving fans and stakeholders eager to see how the situation unfolds.

Rishab Shetty’s highly anticipated prequel, Kantara: Chapter 1, is set to delve into the rich historical tapestry of the Kantara universe. Scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on October 2, 2025, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti, the film is produced by Vijay Kiragandur under the Hombale Films banner. Shetty, who both directs and stars in the film, is joined by actors Jayaram and Jisshu Sengupta in pivotal roles. The narrative is set during the reign of the Kadambas of Banavasi, offering audiences a period horror fantasy action thriller that explores the origins of the mystical elements introduced in the original film. Filming commenced in November 2023, with the first look and teaser unveiled on November 27, 2023. The production retains key talents from the original, including cinematographer Arvind S. Kashyap and music composer B. Ajaneesh Loknath, ensuring continuity in its visual and auditory storytelling. Despite the excitement, the production has faced challenges, notably environmental concerns raised by locals in Karnataka regarding filming activities near Gavigudda. Nevertheless, Kantara: Chapter 1 promises to be a cinematic spectacle, expanding the lore and depth of the Kantara saga.