Kantara Story :-
In the serene and rustic setting of Kantara Village, nestled amidst the coastal landscapes of Karnataka, ancient traditions hold sway over the lives of its inhabitants. Among these customs, bull-racing (known as Kambla) and spirit-worship ceremonies (referred to as Bhooth Kola) play a central role, weaving together the fabric of community and belief.
Movie Ratings
| Release Date | 30 September 2022 |
| Language | Kannada |
| Genre | Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam |
| Duration | 2h 30min |
| Cast | Rishab Shetty, Achyuth Kumar, Pramod Shetty, Sapthami Gowda, Deepak Rai Panaje, Suchan Shetty, Prakash Thuminad, Ragu Pandeshwar |
| Director | Rishab Shetty |
| Writer | Rishab Shetty |
| Cinematography | Arvind Kashyap |
| Producer | Vijay Kiragandur |
| Production | Hombale Films |
| Certificate | 16+ |
The story unfolds with the introduction of Rishab Shetty’s character, a police officer tasked with challenging the deeply ingrained customs of the village. As he attempts to condemn these practices, a wave of resistance rises against him, stirring up a conflict that entangles not only the villagers but also the forces of nature and darker supernatural elements.
Against this backdrop, we meet Shiva, portrayed by Rishab Shetty, a henchman residing in a small tribal hamlet with his mother. Shiva’s past is marked by a traumatic incident linked to the traditional rituals of Daivaradhane and Bhoota Kola, leading him to distance himself from these practices and live a carefree existence. His world is further disrupted with the arrival of Forest Officer Murali, played by Kishore, who embarks on a mission to protect the forest, setting the stage for a clash between conservation and tradition.
The narrative intertwines historical events, tracing back to the 18th century when a benevolent king grants land to the tribal communities in exchange for peace and prosperity. Centuries later, the descendant of this king seeks to reclaim the land, setting off a chain of events that culminate in his mysterious demise during a Bhoota Kola ceremony. This incident serves as a catalyst for a renewed struggle over land ownership, with Murali’s intervention further fueling tensions between the forest-dwellers and the authorities.
Amidst this turmoil, the film explores themes of greed, power, and the complexities of cultural identity. Characters like Leela, portrayed by Saptami Gowda, find themselves caught in the crossfire as they navigate allegiances and confront the ghosts of the past. Meanwhile, the landlord, played by Achyut Kumar, emerges as a cunning figure with vested interests in the ancestral property, adding layers to the unfolding drama.
Through stunning cinematography and evocative music, the film transports viewers into the heart of Tulunadu, capturing the essence of its folklore and traditions. The performances, particularly by Rishab Shetty and Kishore, breathe life into their respective characters, while the ensemble cast weaves a tapestry of emotions and conflicts that resonate long after the credits roll.
In “Kantara,” director Rishab Shetty crafts a compelling narrative that transcends time and space, inviting audiences to ponder the age-old question of progress versus preservation in the face of change. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the true battleground lies not only in the forests of Kantara but also within the hearts and minds of its people.
