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Rishab Shetty’s Kantara Chapter 1 has taken the Indian film industry by storm. Released on October 2, 2025, this cinematic marvel has not only captivated audiences across the country but also rewritten box office history. As it enters its fourth week, the film continues to rake in massive earnings, crossing ₹852 crore worldwide, with expectations to breach the ₹1000 crore mark soon.
The Phenomenon Called Kantara Chapter 1
Kantara Chapter 1, directed and headlined by Rishab Shetty, is a prequel to the 2022 blockbuster Kantara. With a grand budget of ₹125 crore, the film dives deeper into the mystical folklore and spiritual themes that made its predecessor a cult hit. Featuring Gulshan Devaiah, Rukmini Vasanth, and Jayaram, the film blends action, mythology, and emotion in a way that resonates with audiences across linguistic and cultural boundaries.
Box Office Blitz
- Day 1 Collection: ₹61.85 crore
- Week 1 Total: ₹337 crore
- Week 2: ₹147.85 crore
- Week 3: ₹78.85 crore
- Current Total: ₹852 crore worldwide
Despite entering its fourth week, the film shows no signs of slowing down. With minimal competition from other releases like Thama and Deewani, Kantara Chapter 1 continues to dominate screens.
OTT Release Sparks Debate
In a surprising move, the makers announced that Kantara Chapter 1 would release on Amazon Prime Video on October 31, 2025, just four weeks after its theatrical debut. However, this release is limited to South Indian language versions—Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam. The Hindi version will arrive eight weeks post theatrical release, aligning with a pre-decided release window.
Industry Reactions
The early OTT release has stirred debate. Director Sanjay Gupta questioned the rationale behind releasing such a high-grossing film so soon on streaming platforms. The makers responded by clarifying that the OTT deal was signed years ago, when industry norms were different. According to Homewale Films’ partner Chawule, the release window was agreed upon three years ago, and most South Indian films now follow a four-week OTT window.
The Economics Behind OTT Deals
OTT platforms and filmmakers often negotiate release windows based on projected earnings and audience reach. Here’s how it typically works:
- Pre-release Agreements: Filmmakers sell OTT rights before the theatrical release.
- Streaming Conditions: Platforms may demand a specific window—often four weeks—post theatrical release.
- Revenue Trade-offs: While OTT platforms offer lucrative deals, early streaming can impact box office longevity.
When OTT Deadlines Clash with Production
The case of The Lady Killer (2023), starring Arjun Kapoor and Bhumi Pednekar, highlights the risks of rigid OTT timelines. The film’s shoot was delayed, but the streaming deadline remained unchanged, forcing the makers to release an unfinished version in theatres. This underscores the pressure filmmakers face when balancing creative timelines with contractual obligations.
Kantara’s Strategic OTT Move
It’s likely that the makers of Kantara Chapter 1 had signed a dual-film OTT deal during the release of the original Kantara. This would explain the fixed four-week window for the sequel’s streaming debut. While this ensures early digital access for fans, it may curb the film’s theatrical earnings, especially when it still has strong momentum and minimal competition.
What’s Next for Kantara Chapter 1?
Despite the OTT release, the film’s theatrical run remains robust. With no major releases in the coming weeks, Kantara Chapter 1 has a clear path to cross the ₹1000 crore milestone. The Hindi version’s delayed OTT release could further extend its box office life, especially in North India.
Final Thoughts:
Kantara Chapter 1 exemplifies the evolving dynamics of Indian cinema—where folklore meets modern storytelling, and box office success intersects with digital strategy. Rishab Shetty’s vision has not only entertained millions but also sparked important conversations about film distribution in the post-COVID era.
Whether you’re watching it in theatres or waiting for the OTT drop, Kantara Chapter 1 is a cinematic experience that’s hard to ignore.
