The prequel to Kantara was conceived after discussions with co-writers and the team at Hombale. The success of the first film and the questions from journalists prompted the consideration of another installment. The idea evolved from the announcement poster, and the prequel format was chosen to explore the film’s backstory.
Fans can expect a continuation of the intensity, especially from the last twenty minutes of the first film. While the story has shifted to the past, it aims to deliver both familiar and unexpected experiences.
Shetty reflects on his growth as an actor, director, and individual, acknowledging the learning process through the creation of the sequel. He emphasizes the evolution of his craft and the ambition to improve with each project. His goal is to minimize mistakes and aim for scaling up the production values.
The film’s success has significantly altered his life. The project began during the second lockdown after Vijay Kiragandur saw Shetty’s earlier film. The appreciation from the Kannada audience, and later from diverse language audiences, played a crucial role.
Upcoming projects include a film with Mr. Ashwin Gangaraju, titled Anandmath, followed by Jai Hanuman.
He clarifies that a third Kantara film won’t be created simply to meet audience expectations. He prioritizes the quality of the story. A third installment will only be considered if there’s a compelling narrative that allows for a deeper exploration of the Kantara universe.