The upcoming prequel to Kantara, tentatively titled Kantara: Chapter 1, has been generating a lot of excitement and speculation. A particular topic of interest is the potential female lead, and there have been rumours suggesting that actress Rukmini Vasanth might be considered for the role.

Kantara became a surprise runaway hit two years ago when the picturisation of the protagonist possessed by a local deity, a form of the Varaha avatar of Vishnu, took the Hindu audience by storm.

While the details regarding the cast have been kept under wraps, the filmmakers and Rukmini might be working out the contract.

Rukmini is widely recognised for her exceptional performances, but it remains uncertain what character she would portray in the prequel. However, gossip has begun to circulate, hinting at the possibility of her undergoing a screen test. This development implies that the casting process is progressing steadily, adding to the anticipation surrounding the movie.

Should the collaboration between her and the renowned actor-director Rishab Shetty come to fruition, the film’s appeal would certainly be significantly enhanced. There have been speculations about Rishab Shetty potentially taking on the role of a significant character, possibly that of Shiva.

The Kannada film, which is set in the backdrop of the Kadamba dynasty’s era, assures viewers of an engaging storyline deeply rooted in historical mysteries.

The potential female lead

Rukmini Vasanth, hailing from a Kannada-speaking family in Bangalore, Karnataka, has made a significant mark in the Kannada film industry. Her father, Colonel Vasanth Venugopal, was a distinguished military figure who tragically lost his life in 2007 while defending India’s border from Pakistan at Uri, Jammu and Kashmir. Her mother, Subhashini Vasanth, is a renowned Bharatanatyam dancer who has dedicated herself to supporting war widows in Karnataka.

Rukmini’s educational journey took her through various prestigious institutions such as the Army School, Air Force School, and Centre for Learning. She further honed her skills by obtaining an acting degree from the esteemed Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in Bloomsbury, London. Her acting career took off with her debut in the Kannada film industry through the movie Birbal Trilogy (2019), where she starred alongside MG Srinivas.

One of the most notable performances by Rukmini that garnered widespread critical acclaim was her portrayal of Priya in the 2023 Kannada film Sapta Sagaradache Ello. Her talent and dedication to her craft have solidified her position as a respected figure in the industry. With a strong foundation in both her personal and professional life, Rukmini Vasanth continues to shine as a prominent figure in the Kannada movie industry.

Rukmini is presently preparing for her next movie Bagheera, featuring Sriimurali. Despite her hectic schedule, the anticipation of being a part of Kantara-Chapter 1 contributes to the buzz surrounding her career.

Enthusiastic fans are eagerly anticipating updates on the cast and storyline of Kantara: Chapter 1, with the possibility of Rukmini Vasanth being the female lead as discussions are underway with the filmmakers.

Flashback to Kantara 1

In the original, there were flashbacks suggesting how the village in Karnataka came to realise more than a century ago that their area was an abode of Varaha.

The king in a part in the original film, set in 1847, ruled over a magnificent kingdom and had a loving wife and child, yet he was unable to find inner peace. Determined to discover true happiness, he embarks on a journey that leads him to a mystical forest. Within this forest, he stumbles upon a sacred stone guarded by Panjurli Daiva, a deity who protects the villagers residing there.

In a selfless act, the king donates a significant portion of his land to the villagers in exchange for the stone. However, Panjurli warns the king that his family and future generations must honour their commitment and refrain from reclaiming the land, as doing so would invoke the wrath of Guliga Daiva, a fierce demigod and companion of Panjurli.

Previously, a teaser showcasing Rishab Shetty in a powerful role only served to heighten the excitement for the upcoming movie. Nevertheless, the official confirmation regarding his character is still pending, leaving audiences eagerly awaiting further details from the filmmakers. This air of mystery surrounding Rishab Shetty’s role continues to build anticipation and intrigue for the film’s release.