Rishab Shetty’s ₹100 Crore Demand for Kantara Prequel Stuns Industry
After the phenomenal success of Kantara in 2022, which grossed over ₹400 crore worldwide, Rishab Shetty has become one of the most sought-after talents in Indian cinema. Now, with the upcoming prequel Kantara Chapter 1 in development, Shetty is back in the spotlight—not for his direction or acting, but for his paycheck.
Industry sources reveal that Rishab Shetty has reportedly demanded a staggering ₹100 crore as his fee for acting and directing the film, in addition to ₹50 crore through profit-sharing. This is a massive jump from the ₹4 crore he was paid for the original film.
Hombale Films, the banner behind Kantara, is producing the prequel, which is expected to be grander in every sense. The storyline will dive deeper into the folklore hinted at in the first film, with large-scale mythological sequences and an epic war backdrop. The project is slated for a theatrical release in October 2025.
Shetty’s bold fee demand has sent shockwaves through the industry, with many seeing it as a sign of changing dynamics for actor-directors in Indian cinema. If the producers agree, it could set a new benchmark for creative talents commanding both on-screen and behind-the-camera responsibilities.
Regardless of the outcome, one thing is clear—Kantara Chapter 1 has already made headlines long before its release. With sky-high expectations and a buzzworthy budget, all eyes are on how this cinematic mythos unfolds.
