Rishab Shetty starrer Kantara: Chapter 1 was released in theaters on October 2, 2025. Directed by Shetty himself, the epic mythological period drama is running successfully in theaters. Today, Jawan director Atlee praised the film and expressed hope that Rishab wins a National Award for it.
Atlee praises Kantara: Chapter 1 and why Rishab Shetty should win a National Award
Speaking to India Today, Atlee revealed that he was in Amsterdam during the release of Kantara: Chapter 1 and drove 2.5 hours to watch the film on the first day.
The director said, “I was in Amsterdam when the film was released. On the first day, I saw it in theaters. I drove for about two and a half hours to the cinema to watch it. Immediately afterward, I called Rishab, who is a good friend and someone for whom I have great respect.”
“After watching the film, I can say that he is a wonderful source of inspiration for all filmmakers. What he has achieved is something that is not humanly possible. As a director, I can say that it is incredibly difficult to make such a film. But he is also the actor in it, and it is not just any other character to play. It takes a lot of rhythm in you to bring that out,” Atlee added.
Atlee expressed his deep admiration for Rishab Shetty, calling him an inspiration and stating that he hopes Rishab wins a national award for his performance.
Learn more about Kantara: Chapter 1
Kantara: Chapter 1, starring Rishab Shetty in the lead, is a prequel to 2022’s Kantara. Set centuries before the events of the first film, this installment explores mythological and cultural themes more deeply.
The story is set during the reign of the Kadamba dynasty and revolves around a conflict between the king of Bangra and the protagonist Berme, who compete for the sacred land of the Kantara tribe.
Apart from Rishab, the film stars Rukmini Vasanth, Gulshan Devaiah, Jayaram, Pramod Shetty, Naveen D. Padil, Rakesh Poojari, Prakash Thuminad and many others in key roles.
Atlee’s next film
Atlee is currently working on the film, tentatively titled AA22xA6, with Allu Arjun. The film is said to have a “parallel universe” storyline with Deepika Padukone playing one of the female leads.
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