Ever since Kantara: Chapter 1 hit theatres, it has dominated the box office, shattering records and earning critical acclaim. Directed, produced, and headlined by Rishab Shetty, the film has become the second-highest-grossing Indian movie of 2025. While audiences are busy celebrating its success, few know about the long and challenging journey that brought Shetty to this milestone. From selling tea powder and mineral water bottles to making ends meet, Rishab’s story is a testament to hard work, persistence, and passion for cinema.
A look at Rishab Shetty's journey to stardom
Rishab Shetty’s love for films began while studying at the Government Film and Television Institute (GFTI) in Bengaluru, but survival came first. In an earlier interview, he revealed how he juggled multiple odd jobs, including selling tea powder, water bottles, and even marketing solar power products, all while pursuing his dreams. These early struggles instilled in him a strong work ethic and the determination to succeed in the competitive world of cinema.
Before finding his footing, Rishab moved to Mumbai and worked as an office boy at a production house and later as a driver for a producer in Andheri West. These experiences gave him a firsthand understanding of the film industry and the discipline needed to navigate it successfully.
A key influence on Rishab’s work has been Yakshagana, a traditional folk theatre of coastal Karnataka that he has been involved with since childhood. This art form, known for its vibrant storytelling and elaborate costumes, played a crucial role in shaping the cultural authenticity of Kantara, especially in the portrayal of Daiva Kola. It helped Shetty bring depth and rootedness to his performance.
Breaking and scripting new records with Kantara Chapter 1
After years of perseverance, Rishab finally made his mark as a filmmaker and actor with Kantara, which became both a cultural phenomenon and a box-office hit. The newly released prequel, Kantara: Chapter 1, has further cemented his reputation, breaking multiple records and winning the hearts of audiences across India and abroad.
The film’s box office performance has been phenomenal. As of October 12, according to Sacnilk.com, it has grossed Rs 500 crore domestically and Rs 600 crore globally, marking it as one of the top Indian releases of the year.
Its second weekend collections saw nearly Rs 40 crore nett per day, a 75% jump from Friday, showing strong word-of-mouth and audience loyalty. With 11-day total collections of Rs 438.42 crore nett in India, the Kannada and Hindi versions are performing exceptionally well, outpacing other dubbed releases.
Looking back at his journey, Rishab once shared how he could never have imagined such success while eating vada pav near his workplace in Mumbai. Today, his rise from humble beginnings to becoming a box-office powerhouse is celebrated by fans and filmmakers alike.
A look at Rishab Shetty's journey to stardom
Rishab Shetty’s love for films began while studying at the Government Film and Television Institute (GFTI) in Bengaluru, but survival came first. In an earlier interview, he revealed how he juggled multiple odd jobs, including selling tea powder, water bottles, and even marketing solar power products, all while pursuing his dreams. These early struggles instilled in him a strong work ethic and the determination to succeed in the competitive world of cinema.
Before finding his footing, Rishab moved to Mumbai and worked as an office boy at a production house and later as a driver for a producer in Andheri West. These experiences gave him a firsthand understanding of the film industry and the discipline needed to navigate it successfully.
A key influence on Rishab’s work has been Yakshagana, a traditional folk theatre of coastal Karnataka that he has been involved with since childhood. This art form, known for its vibrant storytelling and elaborate costumes, played a crucial role in shaping the cultural authenticity of Kantara, especially in the portrayal of Daiva Kola. It helped Shetty bring depth and rootedness to his performance.
Breaking and scripting new records with Kantara Chapter 1
After years of perseverance, Rishab finally made his mark as a filmmaker and actor with Kantara, which became both a cultural phenomenon and a box-office hit. The newly released prequel, Kantara: Chapter 1, has further cemented his reputation, breaking multiple records and winning the hearts of audiences across India and abroad.
The film’s box office performance has been phenomenal. As of October 12, according to Sacnilk.com, it has grossed Rs 500 crore domestically and Rs 600 crore globally, marking it as one of the top Indian releases of the year.
Its second weekend collections saw nearly Rs 40 crore nett per day, a 75% jump from Friday, showing strong word-of-mouth and audience loyalty. With 11-day total collections of Rs 438.42 crore nett in India, the Kannada and Hindi versions are performing exceptionally well, outpacing other dubbed releases.
Looking back at his journey, Rishab once shared how he could never have imagined such success while eating vada pav near his workplace in Mumbai. Today, his rise from humble beginnings to becoming a box-office powerhouse is celebrated by fans and filmmakers alike.
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