The success streak of South Indian cinema in the Hindi belt continues as Kantara: Chapter 1 has now become the second highest Hindi dubbed release of 2025 to cross the coveted Rs. 100 crore mark, collecting an impressive Rs. 103.10 crore in its Hindi version. Directed by Rishab Shetty, the mythological action-drama has emerged as one of the most organically celebrated films of the year, following in the footsteps of Harman Baweja’s animated blockbuster Mahavatar Narsimha (Rs. 182.83 crore), which currently holds the top spot among Hindi dubbed releases of 2025.
While Mahavatar Narsimha represented a landmark for Indian animation, Kantara: Chapter 1 marks another triumph for storytelling rooted in folklore and tradition. With its intense narrative, spiritual symbolism, and Shetty’s compelling screen presence, the film has resonated strongly with audiences across demographics. Its Hindi run has been particularly noteworthy, sustaining excellent footfalls well beyond the opening week — a rarity in today’s fast-paced box office landscape.
Trade experts attribute the film’s steady rise to its powerful word-of-mouth and emotional appeal. Without relying on large-scale promotions or aggressive marketing, Kantara: Chapter 1 managed to pull audiences into theatres through sheer curiosity and authenticity. The result: the film now joins a rare club of South-origin dubbed hits that have crossed Rs. 100 crore in Hindi, standing tall alongside massive franchise titles like Pushpa: The Rise, Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire, and RRR.
The success also underlines the shifting preferences of Hindi audiences, who are embracing regional cinema that offers deeper narratives and cultural resonance. Much like the original Kantara (2022), this chapter thrives on its rootedness, combining mysticism and emotion in a way that connects beyond linguistic boundaries.
With Kantara: Chapter 1 crossing Rs. 100 crore, and Mahavatar Narsimha leading the Hindi dubbed box office for 2025, the year has so far been a strong one for non-Hindi content that emphasizes originality and vision over conventional Bollywood formulas.
As it continues its theatrical journey, Kantara: Chapter 1 not only strengthens the foothold of Kannada cinema in the pan-India market but also reinforces Rishab Shetty’s reputation as a storyteller who can blend devotion, drama, and cinematic scale seamlessly.
Rs. 100 cr Hindi Dubbed grossers of 2025:
Mahavatar Narsimha – Rs. 182.83 cr
Kantara: A Legend Chapter – 1 – Rs. 103.10 cr