Kishkindhapuri

1. Introduction The cinematic universe of Kantara expands in 2025 with the much-anticipated prequel, Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat, directed by Rishab Shetty, who also reprises his role as both the filmmaker and lead actor. Set against the mystical landscapes of coastal Karnataka, this action-fantasy drama blends folklore, spirituality, and raw human emotion in a way few Indian films dare to attempt. Following the massive cultural impact of the 2022 original, expectations were sky-high for this prequel, promising to delve deeper into the origins of the divine legend that captivated audiences worldwide. But does Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat truly deliver the experience fans have been waiting for?

Kishkindhapuri

2. Storyline (Spoiler-Free) Set centuries before the events of the first Kantara, A Legend Chapter-1 transports us to a time when the forest gods and humans shared a fragile bond of faith and fear. The story follows Kaadubettu Shiva (Rishab Shetty), a fierce tribal warrior chosen by destiny to protect his people from invaders threatening their sacred land. Torn between duty and doubt, Shiva’s journey becomes one of divine awakening and inner turmoil. The narrative elegantly balances myth and reality — blending the supernatural with socio-political undertones. Themes of faith, identity, and man’s relationship with nature echo powerfully throughout. Unlike many modern mythological dramas, Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat doesn’t rely on grand visual effects alone. Instead, it anchors its storytelling in emotion, culture, and a spiritual mystique that feels authentically rooted in South Indian folklore. This chapter is not just a prequel — it’s a myth reborn, revealing how legends are forged in the fires of faith and sacrifice.

Kishkindhapuri

3. Performances Rishab Shetty delivers yet another commanding performance as Kaadubettu Shiva. His portrayal captures the raw intensity of a man torn between human instincts and divine calling. Shetty’s physical transformation, body language, and expressive gaze breathe life into a character that is both mortal and mythical. Sapthami Gowda returns with grace and strength, portraying her role with understated emotion. Her chemistry with Shetty feels more mature and grounded this time, adding a delicate human layer to the story’s spiritual tension. Kishore impresses once again, bringing a subtle menace and moral complexity to his role. His ability to balance authority and empathy makes Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat one of the film’s quiet anchors. The supporting cast — especially the tribal elders and younger warriors — deliver heartfelt portrayals that make the world of Kantara feel alive and believable. Every performance feels rooted in truth, reflecting the earthy tone of the film’s setting and mythology.

Kishkindhapuri

4. Direction & Technical Aspects Rishab Shetty once again proves that he’s not just a director but a visionary storyteller. His direction fuses intense emotional storytelling with technical mastery. The film’s visual language — captured through Arvind Kashyap’s breathtaking cinematography — is nothing short of mesmerizing. Every frame feels like a painting carved from the soil of the Western Ghats. The sweeping drone shots, fluid tracking sequences, and play of light and shadow perfectly capture the spiritual duality at the film’s core. The background score by B. Ajaneesh Loknath deserves special mention. The haunting tribal chants, percussion-heavy rhythms, and ethereal soundscapes heighten every emotional beat. The score doesn’t merely accompany the film; it becomes a spiritual pulse running through it. Editing is tight in most parts, maintaining the film’s rhythm between action, drama, and mysticism. Some moments of slow pacing feel intentional, inviting the viewer to absorb the atmosphere. The action choreography — especially the ritual combat sequences — stands out for its raw physicality and symbolic meaning. Together, these elements make Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat not just a movie, but a deeply immersive cinematic experience.

Kishkindhapuri

5. Strengths 1. Rishab Shetty’s Performance: A tour de force blending emotion, physicality, and divinity. 2. Cinematography: Lush, atmospheric visuals that elevate folklore into art. 3. Music & Sound Design: B. Ajaneesh Loknath’s score is deeply spiritual and unforgettable. 4. Cultural Authenticity: The film celebrates indigenous traditions and beliefs without diluting their essence. 5. Direction: Rishab Shetty’s vision seamlessly merges myth and modern cinema craftsmanship.

Kishkindhapuri

6. Weaknesses 1. Slow Pacing: Some scenes linger longer than necessary, testing the patience of casual viewers. 2. Limited Female Representation: The narrative remains heavily male-driven, offering fewer layers to its female characters. 3. Complex Symbolism: The dense mythological references may be hard to grasp for audiences unfamiliar with the culture.