'Kantara Chapter 1' Actor, Rishab Shetty Has Not Taken A Penny For The Film, Yet, Here's Why

Kantara: Chapter 1 has become the most-awaited release not only in India but also globally. Given the rising expectations of the audience, the film's lead and director, Rishab Shetty, has been gearing up for the big premiere on October 2, 2025. However, the stakes might be higher for the actor-director than the viewers had imagined. 

What is Rishab Shetty charging for Kantara: Chapter 1

Rishab Shetty has given his all to the making of Kantara: Chapter 1. However, do you know how much the actor is being paid for his role in the film, both on and off screen? According to a report by Siasat, Rishab has not received a single rupee as payment for his work in the film, either as an actor or director, so far. Instead, the doting director has opted for a profit-sharing method.

Rishab Shetty sharing profits would mean that his earnings from the film will depend entirely on the movie's box office performance, once it's released, making the stakes even higher for him. It is also worth noting that Kantara: Chapter 1 was made on a massive budget of Rs. 125 crore, and Rishab is also an investor in the film. 

Rishab Shetty on acting and directing Kantara: Chapter 1

Kantara: Chapter 1 is a special project for Rishab Shetty, as he has not just worked on screen but also behind the camera. However, fans often wondered how the actor managed the two roles. During the recent trailer launch of his movie, Rishab Shetty opened up about the dual challenge of starring in and directing Kantara Chapter 1. He revealed that during certain scenes, whenever he would feel the shot was not going the way it was supposed to, he would immediately switch from being an actor to a director. Recalling an instance he shared:

"In some action sequences I was performing, and at the same time, in the background, there were issues. Immediately, I would grab the mic, go to a height and talk to the artists. It used to switch immediately between actor and director. But the character I play is also like that — so it felt organic."

What's the story of Kantara: Chapter 1?

Kantara: Chapter 1 is set in the Kadamba period in Karnataka. According to reports, the Kadambas were significant rulers of parts of Karnataka and played a major role in shaping the region's architecture and culture. That period was known as the Golden Age of Indian History. In 2023, Rishab Shetty announced that what the audience actually saw was the second part of the film, and the next release would be the prequel. He was quoted as saying:

"We are very pleased and thankful to the audience who have shown immense love and support to Kantara and taking the journey ahead, with the blessing of almighty Daiva, the film has successfully completed 100 days, and I would like to take this opportunity to announce the prequel of Kantara. What you have seen is actually Part 2, Part 1 will come next year."

What are your thoughts on Kantara: Chapter 1? Let us know.

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