Kantara Chapter 2: Rishab Shetty confirms beginning writing for 3rd instalment, ‘I need to do that…cannot keep quiet’

Kantara: Chapter 2 is the next sequel/prequel to the Rishab Shetty starrer franchise, directed by the actor himself.

By Goutham S

Published on Jul 07, 2026 | 09:33 PM IST | 607K

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Kantara: Chapter 1, starring Rishab Shetty in the lead role, was a massive hit in theatres in 2025, serving as a prequel and the second installment in the Kantara franchise.

Now, the director-actor has shared an update on the next installment in the franchise.

Rishab Shetty about Kantara: Chapter 2

Speaking to Variety India, Rishab Shetty said, "I need to do that. I cannot keep quiet about my directorial work. I find peace of mind and happiness when I am doing it. I have my team of writers with me, and we are already working on Kantara: Chapter 2."

Rishab also spoke about his acting lineup, which includes films like Jai Hanuman and The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The actor said, "I have the two films lined up back to back. I cannot multitask and do two films simultaneously, so it will be Jai Hanuman followed by The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Both films require me to maintain distinct looks."

Rishab Shetty’s work front

Rishab Shetty was last seen in the lead role in Kantara: Chapter 1, which he also directed. Set centuries before the events of the first installment, the film follows the ruthless king of Bhangra, who seeks to conquer a land rich in spices that is home to the peaceful Kantara tribe. When he invades and attacks them, the divine spirits Panjurli Daiva and Guliga Daiva manifest and defeat him.

His son, Vijayendra, grows up carrying the trauma of those events but becomes a just ruler. Years later, as his own son, Kulashekara, ascends the throne, he begins to display signs of inheriting his grandfather's ruthless nature. The story then follows the growing conflict between the royal family and the tribal community, with divine forces intervening to protect the innocent.

Apart from Rishab, the film also stars Jayaram, Rukmini Vasanth, Gulshan Devaiah, Pramod Shetty, Rakesh Poojari, Prakash Thuminad, and several others in key roles.

Apart from The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the actor will also be seen in the lead role in Jai Hanuman, a high-budget pan-India fantasy film directed by Prasanth Varma. A follow-up to Hanu-Man (2024), the film features Rishab Shetty portraying the role of Lord Hanuman. Production officially commenced with a pooja ceremony held in Hampi in February 2026.

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