Kantara - A Legend: Chapter 1

Set during the Kadamba dynasty, this fantasy drama explores the origins of Kaadubettu Shiva. The plot centers on the fictional land of Bangra, where King Vijayendra dies after entering the mystical Kantara forest. In response, his son Rajashekara closes the kingdom's borders, though they are later reopened through a violent massacre led by Prince Kulashekara. The story follows Berme, who crosses into the forbidden area seeking prosperity, triggering a struggle between nature and the kingdom involving faith and power.

Directed by Rishab Shetty, this is his fourth feature film following Kirik Party, Sarkari. Hi. Pra. Shale Kasaragodu, and Kantara. Shetty also co-wrote the screenplay with Anirudh Mahesh and Shanil Gowtham and stars as Berme, also known as Mayakara. The cast includes Rukmini Vasanth as Princess Kanakavathi, Jayaram as King Rajashekara, Gulshan Devaiah as Prince Kulashekara, Ramitha Shailendra as Rajamatha Rajalakshmi, and Pramod Shetty as Bhogendra.

Produced by Hombale Films with a budget of 14 million USD, the movie earned 91 million USD at the worldwide box office. It has a runtime of 165 minutes. Audiences gave the film a rating of 7.3/10 on TMDB based on 99 votes.