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Rishab Shetty Bets Big on 'Kantara Chapter 1' Box Office Success
30 Sep
Summary
- Rishab Shetty is the director, writer, and lead actor of 'Kantara Chapter 1'
- Shetty has chosen to forgo a set salary and instead earn based on the film's box office performance
- Shetty's entire village in Kundapura, Karnataka was involved in the filmmaking process

As the release of Rishab Shetty's 'Kantara Chapter 1' approaches on October 2, 2025, the details of the actor-director's remuneration have come to light. Shetty, who has played a central role in shaping the film's vision, has chosen to receive earnings based purely on the movie's box office performance, rather than taking a set payment.
In addition to foregoing a salary, Shetty is also said to have invested his own money into the project, which has a reported budget of Rs 125 crore. The film explores themes from the 4th and 5th centuries, and Shetty has been meticulous in ensuring the realistic, cinematic, and immersive feel of the story, characters, and setting.
The involvement of Shetty's entire village in Kundapura, Karnataka also brought a unique dynamic to the filmmaking process. "Everyone in my village was involved in the filmmaking process. It was like a film village, if not a film city. It felt like the whole town had become a studio," Shetty shared.
Despite the pressure of following up on a successful first instalment, Shetty remains motivated and focused on delivering a compelling story. "It is a responsibility. We will put more effort and hard work into bringing a good story," he said.