Rishab Shetty posted a message for his fans at 12 am, marking the release day. “The epic journey begins 🔥 #KantaraChapter1 in cinemas from TODAY,” he wrote.

“Now Watching #KantaraChapter1 FDFS. Thoughts till the interval: the scale is bigger, the world immersive, but the narrative seems scattered so far. #RishabShetty commands the screen, and the visuals are stunning, as expected,” wrote HT’s Abhimanyu Mathur. Stay tuned for full review.

“#KantaraChapter1

Decent first half, engaging second half & a superb climax, with the pre-interval sequence standing out!

🔥 Stellar performance from Rishab Shetty, while Rukmini Vasanth shines gracefully. Great to see Jayaram in a good role as well.

Technically brilliant with top-notch VFX, an outstanding background score & impactful action sequences.

On the downside: The first half had a few draggy portions and comedy that didn’t quite land.

✨ Overall: A Solid Watch,” read a review of the movie.

Actor Rukmini Vasanth will be seen donning the role of Princess Kanakavathi in Kantara: Chapter 1.

Sharing her experience working in the film, Rukmini, in a press note, said, “For me, Princess Kanakavathi has been one of the most special journeys of my life. It wasn’t just about looking regal– it was more about carrying a piece of our land, our folklore, and our faith in every movement. I think that’s why the trailer feels so powerful, because it’s the spirit of an entire culture shining through the glimpses. Kanakavathi is royal, yes, but she is also human and vulnerable. I had to surrender to her grace, but also to her grit. I can’t wait for people to meet her in theatres.”

“#Kantara WINNER 🔥🔥🔥

A solid prequel to Kantara with enough theatrical moments, powerful performances, and a super climax like Part 1 — maybe even better. Strong performance from

@shetty_rishab

, and a good role for

@rukminitweets

as well. Top-notch production quality 🔥 — VFX, cinematography, and music are excellent. There are some flaws in between, but overall, it’s worth the money.

Go for it 👍 A proud padam for the Kannada industry.”

Kantara Chapter 1 is also being called Kantara 2 by several people as well. It is currently trending #3 on Google Trends.

Kantara Chapter 1 is actually a prequel to 2022’s National Award-winning hit, Kantara.

“Just watched #KantaraChapter1, and it is below average, with poor writing and a confusing plot. Rishab Shetty leans on a single Guliga possession scene that was already shown in Kantara. People on X are hyping it because it is paid. My rating: ⭐⭐½. Overhyped and disappointing.”

Actor Varun Dhawan says the box office clash between his upcoming film Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari and Kantara: Chapter 1 was unavoidable and he is confident that both the films are different and will do “big business”. He said they have a lot of love and admiration for south cinema and Hombale films.

“It’s in a very healthy, good space… It’s South Indian cinema. So, it’s our cinema eventually. I’m as proud of that cinema like I’m proud of any film over here. I feel that my country is going to make a film eventually, it’s not coming from any other country,” Dhawan added.

“Kantara Chapter1 Blockbuster 💥💥

⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ 4.5/5 !!

Especially the 2nd Half — Peak Madness of @shetty_rishab is on another level 🔥🔥 A true peak cinematic experience 👏

This is proof that Kannada filmmakers can deliver world-class cinema. 🎬

Globally, this masterpiece will earn recognition for their craft. 🌍

As a Kannadiga, it’s a proud moment to witness our stories shining at this scale,” read another review on Twitter.

“#KantaraChapter1 [4/5] : 💥 Divine Cinema, Goosebump Experience!

@shetty_rishab owns every frame 🙌🔥

That transformation + climax = THEATRE ERUPTS 🤯

@rukminitweets surprise package 🌸

#AjaneeshLoknath BGM = Soul of Kantara 🎶

This is not just a film, it’s a pure DIVINE RIDE,” wrote trade expert Ramesh Bala.

“KANTARA: CHAPTER 1 – Mind-boggling VFX featuring animals. Might be the best to come out of India so far,” read a review of the movie on Twitter.