Actor and filmmaker Rishab Shetty’s much-anticipated film Kantara Chapter 1 is gearing up for its release on 2 October. However, a promotional event scheduled for 30 September in Chennai has been cancelled in light of a devastating tragedy in Tamil Nadu. The decision comes after a deadly stampede at Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam chief and actor Vijay’s campaign rally in Karur, which claimed at least 41 lives.
The makers of Kantara Chapter 1, Hombale Films, shared an official statement on Instagram, expressing their grief and solidarity with the affected families. “In view of the recent unfortunate incident, we have decided to cancel our Kantara Chapter 1 promotional event scheduled in Chennai tomorrow. We believe this is a time for reflection and solidarity with those affected. Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the families impacted,” the statement read.
The caption added, “Due to the recent unfortunate incident, we are cancelling the #KantaraChapter1 promotional event in Chennai tomorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected. Thank you for your understanding. We look forward to meeting our audience in Tamil Nadu at a more appropriate time.”
The stampede occurred during Vijay’s political rally, where an overwhelming crowd gathered to catch a glimpse of the actor-turned-politician. As people surged towards the barricades, chaos broke out, resulting in the deadly stampede. Vijay has expressed deep sorrow and announced financial aid of ₹20 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹2 lakh each for the injured.
Also Read: Rishab Shetty’s Kantara Chapter 1: The journey from an office boy to a superstar
Kantara Chapter 1, written and directed by Rishab Shetty, serves as a prequel to the 2022 blockbuster Kantara. It explores the origins of the mythological traditions introduced in the original. The film also stars Rukmini Vasanth and Gulshan Devaiah and will clash at the box office with Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari.
