National Award-winning actor Rishab Shetty has cemented his status as a major force in Indian cinema, embarking on two of the most anticipated mythological epics of the decade. The star is set to portray the titular divine hero in Prasanth Varma’s grand cinematic venture, Jai Hanuman, while simultaneously directing and starring in his passion project, the prequel Kantara: Chapter 1.
This dual commitment is a testament to Shetty’s versatility and his dedication to bringing rich, cultural narratives to the big screen. The announcement of his role in Jai Hanuman, the sequel to the highly successful Hanu-Man, was met with immense fan excitement on October 30, 2024. Director Prasanth Varma has indicated that this sequel will place Hanuman in a more prominent role than the character of Hanumanthu from the first film. The decision to cast Shetty, known for his powerful and raw performance in Kantara, was lauded by industry insiders and the public alike, as his portrayal is expected to bring a fresh, dynamic dimension to the legendary deity.
Jai Hanuman is a key expansion of the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU). The film’s pre-production officially commenced on the auspicious occasion of the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, a strategic move by the creators to underscore the film’s deep connection to Hindu mythology. The project is being produced by Mythri Movie Makers and Primeshow Entertainment, the team behind the original hit. It is a highly ambitious project, with sources indicating that the film is being designed for an IMAX 3D experience, promising a massive visual spectacle.
Kantara: Chapter 1, on the other hand, is a journey back to the roots of the folklore that made the original Kantara a pan-Indian blockbuster. Directed by and starring Shetty, the prequel will delve into the origins of the traditions and ancestral conflict introduced in the first film. The juxtaposition of his role as the “ferocious” Naga Sadhu in Kantara: Chapter 1 with the divine and powerful Hanuman in Prasanth Varma’s universe has audiences buzzing with excitement about his range.
Release Schedule and Production Updates
While both films are highly anticipated, their release schedules are staggered due to their massive scale.
- Kantara: Chapter 1 is the first of the two to hit screens, with a confirmed release date of October 2, 2025. This strategic date coincides with Gandhi Jayanti and Vijayadashami, setting the stage for a major festive release across multiple languages. The film’s shooting wrapped up in July 2025, and it is now in the post-production phase.
- Jai Hanuman, initially planned for a 2025 release, has reportedly been pushed to 2026. Director Prasanth Varma has stated that the overwhelming success of Hanu-Man has increased the responsibility to deliver a high-quality sequel, necessitating more extensive pre-production and visual effects work. As of now, the movie is still in the pre-production phase, with no official filming having begun. This timeline allows Shetty to focus on the release of Kantara: Chapter 1 before fully dedicating himself to the next epic.
The staggered release schedule ensures that both films have the space to shine on their own. It also reflects the meticulous attention to detail and high production values that both filmmakers, Prasanth Varma and Rishab Shetty, are committing to their respective cinematic universes.
