Kantara Chapter 1 Stunt Choreographer Arjun Raj Reveals Action Secrets
Kantara: Chapter 1, produced by Hombale Films, is already being called one of the most ambitious and visually spectacular films in Indian cinema. Directed and headlined by Rishab Shetty, the prequel to the 2022 blockbuster Kantara is set for a grand theatrical release on October 2, 2025, across multiple languages including Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and English. Kantara Chapter 1
As excitement builds, the film’s stunt choreographer Arjun Raj has made a big revelation about the scale of action sequences, the risks involved, and Rishab Shetty’s unbelievable dedication. In an exclusive insight, he revealed how Kantara: Chapter 1 will not only surpass expectations but also showcase Indian cinema’s action on a global scale.
Arjun Raj on Getting the Offer for Kantara: Chapter 1
Arjun Raj wasn’t originally supposed to be a part of the project. He revealed,
“I wasn’t part of the project in the beginning. This was a massive canvas, and honestly, I thought I might not enter that league. I was in Varanasi when I prayed to be part of something huge. A few days later, I got the call. Initially, they wanted me for just one sequence. Later, they handed me four. Call it destiny, call it divine blessing – it happened.” Kantara Chapter 1
Eventually, Raj choreographed four major stunt sequences in the film. Additionally, Ram-Lakshman, one of India’s top stunt duos, handled a key fight, while Hollywood stunt director Todor Lazarov designed the large-scale war sequences. Kantara Chapter 1
Action Set in a Thousand-Year-Old Era
One of the biggest challenges was that Kantara: Chapter 1 is set a thousand years ago, making it impossible to borrow from modern action styles. Raj explained that every move, weapon, and style had to feel authentic to the era.
He highlighted a massive carriage chase sequence, calling it the riskiest stunt of his career. This scene involved Rishab Shetty and over a thousand junior artists, with every detail planned meticulously over weeks. Kantara Chapter 1
No Body Doubles – Rishab Shetty Took Every Risk Himself
Arjun Raj also confirmed that Rishab Shetty did not use a body double for any of his stunts. Instead, the actor underwent intense training in:
- Kalaripayattu (ancient martial art)
- Sword fighting
- Horse riding
Despite the dangers, Rishab Shetty insisted on performing every stunt himself. Raj recalled,
“Rishab performed bare-bodied, with a body language so distinct no dupe could replicate it. He doesn’t stop at ‘I’ll try my best.’ He says, ‘I’ll do it till I am alive.’ That spirit changes everything.”
The Scale of Investment and Preparation
The action in Kantara: Chapter 1 is being hailed as some of the grandest and most expensive in Indian cinema. Kantara Chapter 1
- Each major sequence required 6+ days of preparation.
- The carriage fight sequence alone took 25 shooting days, 6 prep days, and 15 days of rehearsals.
- The cost of filming reached ₹1 crore per day, making it one of the most expensive action productions in recent times.
Arjun Raj praised Hombale Films for giving complete creative freedom and investing heavily in making the sequences look authentic and world-class.
Why Kantara: Chapter 1 Is Hombale Films’ Most Ambitious Project
With the success of Kantara (2022), expectations are sky-high. The prequel dives into the mythical roots of the story, set centuries before the events of the first film. From epic war battles to traditional martial art duels, the film is designed to push Indian cinema into a new league of storytelling and spectacle. Kantara Chapter 1
Kantara: Chapter 1 Release Date and Languages
The film is scheduled to release in theatres on October 2, 2025. It will be available in:
- Kannada (original)
- Hindi
- Telugu
- Tamil
- Malayalam
- English
Given the massive hype, advance bookings are expected to break records similar to Baahubali and KGF franchises.
Final Words
With Rishab Shetty’s fearless stunts, Arjun Raj’s innovative choreography, and Hombale Films’ grand vision, Kantara: Chapter 1 promises to be a once-in-a-generation cinematic experience. The film’s action, scale, and storytelling are expected to set a new benchmark in Indian cinema and will likely dominate both the domestic and global box office. Kantara Chapter 1
📌 Mark your calendars – October 2, 2025 – the day Indian cinema makes history once again with Kantara: Chapter 1.