Kantara (2022)
DirectorRishab Shetty
StarringRishab Shetty, Sapthami Gowda, Kishore, Achyuth Kumar
Watch onNetflix, Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video with Ads
Best for: Fans of action-adventure thrillers with a cultural twist.
Where to watch Kantara online in India
Subscription
Netflix
Amazon Prime Video
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Amazon VideoAvailability for India, data by JustWatch. Updated 23 October 2026.
Kantara Collection: all movies in order
- Kantara (30 September 2022) · this movie
- Kantara - A Legend: Chapter 1 (2 October 2025)
- Kantara: Chapter 2 (release date not announced)
Listed in release order, as per TMDB's Kantara Collection.
Kantara story (no spoilers)
Kantara follows Shiva, a tribal vagabond living with his mother in a hamlet, who avoids the traditional Daivaradhane and Bhoota Kola legacy because of an unforgettable childhood incident. He spends his days loafing with friends and doing petty jobs for his landlord. The arrival of Forest Officer Murali brings a fresh dimension to the man-vs-nature conflict. Shiva must decide whether he can save the forest from Murali, or if Murali is just a dummy bait cast by bigger fish. The film blends action, adventure, and thriller elements against a backdrop of tribal traditions and forest politics.
Should you watch Kantara?
Watch it for
- Rishab Shetty directs and stars as Shiva, bringing a raw intensity to the role.
- The film's exploration of the Daivaradhane and Bhoota Kola legacy adds a unique cultural layer to the action-thriller genre.
- Kishore's portrayal of Forest Officer Murali creates a tense man-vs-nature conflict.
- At 147 minutes, the film maintains a tight pace across action, adventure, and thriller beats.
Skip it if
- You prefer films that avoid the darker aspects of tribal traditions and forest conflicts.
- You are looking for a light-hearted family entertainer, as the UA certificate and genres suggest a more intense tone.
Kantara cast
Rishab Shettyas Kaadubettu Shiva / Shiva's Father
Sapthami Gowdaas Leela
Kishoreas Murali
Achyuth Kumaras Devendra Suttooru
Pramod Shettyas Sudhakar
Prakash Thuminadas Raampa
Swaraj Shettyas Guruva
Deepak Rai Panajeas SundaraKantara movie details
| Director | Rishab Shetty |
|---|---|
| Writer | Rishab Shetty |
| Music | B. Ajaneesh Loknath |
| Cinematography | Arvind Kashyap |
| Producer | Vijay Kiragandur |
| Release date | 30 September 2022 |
| Runtime | 2h 27m (147 minutes) |
| Original language | Kannada |
| Country of origin | India |
| Languages spoken in the film | Kannada, Malayalam |
| Original title | ಕಾಂತಾರ |
| Certificate (India) | UA |
| Budget | $2.0 million (approx.) |
| Worldwide box office | $60.4 million (approx.) |
Parental guide: is Kantara family friendly?
This is a general guide based on the UA certificate and action-thriller genre; parental discretion is advised. This is a general guide based on genre and certification.
Our verdict
Kantara is a gripping action-thriller that dives into tribal folklore and forest politics, anchored by Rishab Shetty's dual role as director and lead. The film's unique setting and cultural depth make it a standout, though the intense themes may not suit all viewers.
More movies directed by Rishab Shetty
Kantara - A Legend: Chapter 1More Rishab Shetty movies
LuciaFrequently asked questions
Where can I watch Kantara online in India?
Kantara is available for streaming on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Amazon Prime Video with Ads. It is also available for rent on Amazon Video.
What is the release date of Kantara?
Kantara was released in India on 30 September 2022.
Who is the director of Kantara?
Kantara is directed by Rishab Shetty, who also stars as Shiva.
What is the runtime of Kantara?
Kantara has a runtime of 147 minutes.
What is the watch order for the Kantara franchise?
The Kantara Collection includes Kantara (2022), followed by Kantara - A Legend: Chapter 1 (2025), and Kantara: Chapter 2 (date not announced).
Page last updated 23 October 2026. Facts from TMDB; how we write these pages: editorial policy.