Rukmini Vasanth, the rising Kannada actress known for her breakout in Sapta Saagaradaache Ello (2023), steps into the spotlight as Princess Kanakavathi in Rishab Shetty’s Kantara Chapter 1, a mythological action epic set for release on October 2, 2025. Directed and starring Shetty, the film—produced by Hombale Films—unfolds in Karnataka’s Kadamba dynasty era, weaving folklore, faith, and intense battles. Vasanth’s portrayal of the royal yet vulnerable princess, revealed in the Hindi trailer on September 22, 2025, has sparked massive buzz, with her calling the experience “a huge education” in embodying cultural depth. Filmed across Karnataka’s lush terrains, the pan-Indian release in multiple languages positions Vasanth as a key player in one of 2025’s most anticipated sequels.
A Role Steeped in Heritage and Heart
Princess Kanakavathi isn’t just royalty—she’s the emotional core of Kantara Chapter 1, a prequel delving into the origins of Bhuta Kola rituals and divine guardianship. Vasanth’s character, regal in turquoise drapes and ornate jewelry, navigates palace intrigue and a blooming romance with Shetty’s tribal warrior, amid clashes with the tyrannical Kulashekara. “For me, Princess Kanakavathi has been one of the most special journeys of my life,” Vasanth shared in an interview. “It wasn’t just about looking regal, it was more about carrying a piece of our land, our folklore, and our faith in every movement.” Her preparation involved sword fighting, horse riding, and immersing in Karnataka’s traditions, transforming her from a modern heroine to a figure of grace and grit.
A Huge Education: From Debut to Dynasty
Vasanth’s journey to Kantara is a masterclass in growth. Debuting in Birbal (2019), she gained acclaim in Sapta Saagaradaache Ello, earning a Filmfare nomination. Joining Kantara Chapter 1 early in 2024, she credits Shetty for guiding her through the film’s cultural layers. “Rishab sir has written a beautiful and strong role for me to try, embody, and explore in the world of Kantara,” she told . The preparation was intense: “There was a lot to prepare for—sword fighting, horse riding. There was a lot of scope for performance.” Her character’s vulnerability—royal yet human—mirrors Vasanth’s own evolution, making Kanakavathi a “once-in-a-lifetime” role. Shetty, in the trailer launch, praised her dedication: “Rukmini brings the princess to life with authenticity.”
The Epic’s Scope: Folklore Meets Fury
Kantara Chapter 1, a sequel to the 2022 blockbuster that grossed ₹450 crore, dives deeper into Karnataka’s mystical heritage. The trailer teases a child’s quest for his missing father under an oppressive king, with Vasanth’s Kanakavathi sparking conflict and romance. “Some stories aren’t just told, they are experienced,” the makers captioned the Hindi trailer. With a multilingual release (Kannada, Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam, Tamil, Bengali, and English), it eyes ₹500 crore, blending VFX-heavy battles with emotional depth. Vasanth’s role, central to the love track, adds layers to the saga of nature vs. supernatural.
A Princess’s Promise
Rukmini Vasanth’s Kanakavathi isn’t mere royalty—it’s a testament to her growth, asking: Can a newcomer command an epic? With Shetty’s vision and her grace, Kantara Chapter 1 answers yes, October 2 promising folklore’s fierce return.
-By Manoj H