Tragedy Strikes ‘Kantara’ Again: Mimicry Artist Viju Passes Away Near Agumbe
Another tragedy has struck the unit of Kantara: Chapter 1, leaving the film’s cast and crew in mourning. Following the earlier death of a junior artist last month, a second untimely demise has now been reported from the film’s sets.
According to reports, Viju, a mimicry artist from Kerala who was associated with the production of Kantara: Chapter 1, passed away from a suspected heart attack on Wednesday night. He was staying near Agumbe in the Shivamogga district, Karnataka, along with the Kantara team. After experiencing severe chest pain, Viju was reportedly rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was declared dead by doctors.
Not the First Tragedy
This incident marks the second fatal mishap connected to the film. Earlier, on May 7, junior artist M.F. Kapil drowned in the Souparnika River in the Udupi district while working on the same project. These unfortunate incidents are casting a shadow of gloom over the highly anticipated prequel.
While fans and well-wishers have expressed concern and sorrow over these repeated tragedies, Hombale Films, the production house behind the project, has not released an official statement confirming Viju’s involvement in the film or addressing the latest incident.
About the Film
Kantara: Chapter 1 is the much-awaited prequel to the 2022 blockbuster Kantara, starring Rishab Shetty. The film has been in the spotlight for its massive production values and mythological depth, aiming to recreate the cultural magic that made the first installment a pan-India hit.
As the team continues production amidst mounting emotional challenges, fans hope for strength and safety for the cast and crew going forward.
