Rishab Shetty unfazed by controversy, focuses on Kantara: Chapter 1 with intense Kalaripayattu training

Kannada actor-filmmaker Rishab Shetty has recently found himself at the centre of a heated debate following his remarks about the types of films produced in Bollywood. His comments, which criticized Bollywood for making "art house films" that portray India negatively to international audiences, sparked a widespread discussion and attracted significant backlash. Despite the uproar, Rishab appears unfazed, remaining fully immersed in his upcoming project, Kantara: Chapter 1.

On Thursday, Rishab shared an image from his rigorous training session, where he is seen wielding a sword and shield, crouched in an aggressive attack stance. The photo not only highlights his physical agility but also showcases his growing expertise in Kalaripayattu, the ancient Indian martial art. This skill is expected to play a crucial role in the action sequences of Kantara: Chapter 1, a period drama set before the events of the original Kantara.

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Kantara was a sleeper hit, rapidly climbing the ranks to become one of the biggest blockbusters in Kannada cinema history, trailing only behind KGF: Chapter 2. Made on a budget of less than Rs 20 crore, the film went onto earn over Rs 400 crore in global ticket sales. The film's success prompted Rishab to swiftly announce a prequel, with the production now scaled up in terms of budget and scope to cater to the franchise's nationwide popularity.

Earlier, Rishab unveiled a promotional clip revealing his transformation into a warrior, fueling anticipation for what promises to be a visual spectacle. With about 30% of the film's shoot already completed, the team is on track for a mid-2025 release. 

Adding to his accolades, Rishab recently won the Best Actor award for his performance in Kantara , further solidifying his standing in the industry. He's only the fourth Kannada actor to win this prestigious award after MV Vasudeva Rao, Charuhasan, and Sanchari Vijay. 

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