'Kantara' Creators Recount Humble Beginnings and Spiritual Odyssey

In October 2025, the creators of the hit film 'Kantara' reflect on their remarkable journey. Just a year ago, the movie was a modest regional production with big dreams and no expectations. For director, writer, and lead actor Rishab Shetty and his wife Pragathi, it was simply about telling a story rooted in their culture, land, and beliefs.

However, 'Kantara' has since transcended language barriers and become a national conversation. Pragathi recalls their initial awe at the film's growing success, saying, "The first 'Kantara' was a very small regional movie for us. We didn't expect it to become this phenomenon."

Behind this ever-expanding universe stands Rishab Shetty, whom Pragathi sees as divinely chosen for the path he has walked. His work ethic borders on the devotional, as he deeply immerses himself in the film's cultural traditions and rituals. "We follow all the festivals that happen every year at our local temple," Rishab explains. "Whatever we feel at that moment, we try to maintain that same feeling while shooting those sequences."

Pragathi, the costume designer for 'Kantara Chapter 1', has played a crucial role in supporting Rishab's creative vision. She ensures the world around him doesn't collapse, handling family responsibilities and other production duties. "When you have talent, passion, and you are ready to do hard work like Rishab does, I don't want him putting his energies anywhere else," she says.

The 'Kantara' journey has been an all-consuming one, with the team shooting for over 250 days. But for Rishab and Pragathi, this is not just a film – it's a calling. "We never really thought about success," Rishab shares. "We just wanted to tell a good story. Now that the audience is liking it, we feel grateful."

As the 'Kantara' universe continues to expand, the story of its creators' devotion and unwavering commitment to their cultural roots has become as captivating as the film itself.