Rishab Shetty’s upcoming film Kantara: Chapter 1 has found itself at the center of controversy after the Karnataka Forest Department launched an investigation into the film’s shooting practices. Concerns were raised by local residents, who alleged that the crew used explosives during filming, putting both the forest ecosystem and wildlife at risk. The shooting location is situated near a core forest area, heightening environmental concerns.
Amid these tensions, Kantara: Chapter 1 is also generating buzz for its upcoming war sequence. Hombale Films, the production company behind the project, has reportedly enlisted a large crew, including international specialists, to execute this ambitious scene. According to a source cited by Times Now, the sequence is expected to be one of the most grandiose and intense war scenes ever filmed in Indian cinema.
The prequel to the National Award-winning 2022 film Kantara, the new project continues to feature Rishab Shetty in the lead role. Despite the excitement surrounding the film’s scale, the controversy has led to scrutiny. Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre issued a statement noting that if any violations of forest laws or damage to wildlife are discovered, the shooting will be halted immediately. He emphasized that the inspection by the Deputy Conservator of Forests in Hassan would determine whether any regulations were breached.
As the investigation progresses, all eyes are on whether the much-anticipated war sequence can be completed without further delays.
