Bengaluru, October 15 - In a remarkable feat, Rishab Shetty's period folk action thriller Kantara Chapter 1 has emerged as the highest-grossing movie ever in Karnataka, surpassing its predecessor Kantara, which itself had an extraordinary run back in 2022.

The original Kantara started on a slow note at the box office but soon turned into a cultural and commercial phenomenon across Karnataka and other Indian markets, driven by exceptionally strong word of mouth. Kantara Chapter 1, serving as a prequel to that story, stands as a testament to the legacy the first film created.

The latest blockbuster has not only rewritten box office history in the state but is also poised to become the first film to cross the 200 crore mark in Karnataka "” an unprecedented achievement. When comparing both films' state runs, it's clear that the prequel has dominated the early weeks by a massive margin.

However, while the original Kantara displayed incredible longevity with minimal drops week after week, Kantara Chapter 1 is more front-loaded, owing to its record-breaking opening. The prequel is expected to drop around 55% in its second week "” still a solid hold "” whereas the first film had shown growth during the same period, maintaining its momentum through sustained audience love.

Given the current trajectory, Kantara Chapter 1 is on course to collect over 250 crores at the Karnataka box office "” a record that may remain unbeaten for years to come. At the worldwide box office, the film is heading towards the 700 crores mark and will be aiming to outgross Vicky Kaushal's Chhaava (808 crores) to become the biggest Indian grosser of the year.

Stay tuned...