The upcoming prequel Kantara: Chapter 1 has already created waves in the film industry with a record OTT deal. According to a report by Pinkvilla, the digital streaming rights of the film have been sold for an estimated ₹125 crore to Amazon Prime Video, covering all languages post-theatrical release.
Directed by Rishab Shetty and backed by Hombale Films, the movie is being mounted on a grand scale, with around 20 VFX studios worldwide involved in its post-production. The team is aiming to deliver a visually powerful cinematic experience that expands on the world introduced in the 2022 blockbuster Kantara.
The makers are set to unveil the official trailer on September 20, 2025, strategically timed ahead of its October 2 theatrical release, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti.
Comparative Industry Context:
The ₹125 crore OTT deal for Kantara: Chapter 1 reflects the soaring digital appetite for big-ticket Indian films. In comparison, reports suggest that Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2: The Rule fetched over ₹250 crore in digital and satellite rights combined, while Prabhas starrer Salaar was valued at over ₹150 crore for its streaming rights. Against this backdrop, the Kantara prequel’s deal stands out as one of the highest-ever for a Kannada film, proving the franchise’s growing national and global pull.
Industry Impact:
- The acquisition by Amazon Prime Video signals confidence in the film’s pan-Indian and overseas viewership potential.
- With its release date fixed, the film is expected to dominate the festive box office season and further strengthen Hombale Films’ track record after hits like KGF and Kantara.
- The prequel also highlights how Kannada cinema is increasingly shaping India’s digital entertainment economy.
Conclusion:
With an unprecedented digital rights sale, a September trailer launch, and a Gandhi Jayanti release, Kantara: Chapter 1 is positioned not just as a major festive release but also as a landmark in the business of Indian cinema.
