Kantara Chapter 1 Kerala release dispute explained: What's the reason for potential 'ban' of Rishab Shetty film

In the last week or so, all that one hears from the makers of the upcoming Kantara Chapter 1, are the partnerships that have been forged to ensure the film’s release on October 2. One among them is actor-filmmaker Prithviraj Sukumaran’s banner for the Kerala region, a partnership that’s already a few years and films old. But soon after the announcement was made that Prithviraj would present the second film in Rishab Shetty’s Kantara saga, news broke about a disagreement between his banner and the Film Exhibitors United Organisation of Kerala (FEUOK).

Prithviraj Sukumaran wants 55% for 2 weeks, as against usual practice

It was reported that the distributor demanded a two-week revenue share of 55% theatrical share, as against the standard practice of 50% for a week, which can go up to 55% in rare cases, but never more than 7 days. Amid ongoing discussions between representatives of both sides to find common ground on the issue, reports also emerged that the release of Kantara Chapter 1 was likely to be stalled in the wake of an FEUOK ban.

Industry trackers reckon that even if theatres under FEUOK were to refrain from exhibiting Kantara Chapter 1 in the state, there were still enough screens in Kerala to release the film, including national multiplex chains, among others. While that is the solution if FEUOK and Prithviraj’s banner fail to reach an understanding, it is more likely that the issue will be sorted shortly.

The current impasse about revenue sharing apart, it has also been pointed out that when Malayalam films are released outside of Kerala, there’s no more than 30-40% revenue share. FEUOK is batting for more uniformity in terms of revenue sharing of non-Malayalam films in Kerala and Malayalam films outside the state.

Also read: All eyes on Rishab Shetty’s Kantara Chapter 1, as War 2 and Coolie flounder at the box office 

With only 3 weeks to go for its grand release, the makers of Kantara are yet to begin promotions and have not shared any glimpses from the film. So far, the only two casting confirmations have been of Rukmini Vasanth and Gulshan Devaiah. Netizens expect Rishab and co to go on a two-week publicity blitzkrieg, which may not be necessary, considering that it is one of the most expected films of 2025.

FAQs

Q. Are Kantara and Kantara: Chapter 1 the same?

A. No, they are separate films in the same franchise, both written and directed by Rishab Shetty. Kantara released in 2022, while Kantara: Chapter 1 is expected to hit theatres on October 2, 2025. Chapter 1 is the prequel of the original film and is supposedly an exploration of the origin of the Panjurli Daiva, among others.

Q. Whose avatar is Panjurli Daiva?

A. Panjurli Daiva is considered an avatar of Lord Vishnu in his Varaha incarnation. Panjurli, according to folklore, was a wild boar, who was slain by Lord Shiva and then revived to become a divine protector.

Q. Which OTT will Kantara Chapter 1 be on after theatrical release?

A. Amazon Prime Video acquired the digital streaming rights of Kantara Chapter 1 even before the completion of filming.