Kantara Chapter 1, starring Rishab Shetty, has been involved in a controversy after it was reported that a junior artiste drowned on the film’s set. The incident occurred on May 6 near the Souparnika River in Kollur, Karnataka, where 33 year old MF Kapil drowned during shoot. The deceased went into the river for a swim but couldn’t survive due to strong current. Local authorities, fire and rescue teams began searching for him after they were alerted.
The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has issued a strong statement demanding immediate action. The association called for an FIR to be filed against Rishab Shetty and the production house Hombale Films.
“The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) expresses deep sorrow over the tragic demise of junior artist MF Kapil, aged 33, a resident of Moosarithara, Vaikom, Kerala, who lost his life on May 6, 2025, around 3:45 PM near Souparnika River, close to Kollur, Karnataka, during the shooting of the film “Kantara 2 (Chapter-1).” According to the film’s producer and owner of the production house, Rishab Shetty, the cause of death has been stated as drowning while swimming in the river. An FIR has been registered at Kollur Police Station regarding this incident.” AICWA stated
The association has also urged Karnataka’s Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to launch a probe. Additionally, AICWA has demanded a financial compensation of rupees 1 crore to be provided to Kapil’s bereaved family “AICWA urges the Honourable Chief Minister of Karnataka, Shri Siddaramaiah, to initiate a high-level, impartial investigation into the death of MF Kapil, ensuring justice for his family.”
The statement further read “In addition, AICWA appeals to the producers of “Kantara 2” to provide financial compensation of INR 1 crore to the bereaved family of MF Kapil, acknowledging the immense loss they have suffered.”
Media Release
— All Indian Cine Workers Association (@AICWAOfficial) May 8, 2025
Date: May 8, 2025
Subject: AICWA Demands Impartial Investigation into the Tragic Death of Junior Artist MF Kapil on the Set of “Kantara 2 (Chapter-1)”
Mumbai – The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) expresses deep sorrow over the tragic demise of junior… pic.twitter.com/QTDR0wU4v9
However, earlier the makers have issued a clarification on the incident and revealed that there was no shooting schedule on the day of the tragic death. The statement reads, “We deeply regret the unfortunate incident and would like to respectfully clarify that it did not take place on the sets of Kantara. In fact, there was no shooting scheduled on the day the incident occurred. The incident happened during his personal trip with friends. We request everyone to kindly avoid any speculation linking it to the film.”
About Kantara: Chapter 1
A prequel to the 2022 blockbuster Kantara, is directed by and stars Rishab Shetty. It is a period drama set during the reign of the Kadamba dynasty of Banavasi. The film also features Jayaram, Kishore, Jayasurya, and Jisshu Sengupta and is scheduled to hit the theaters on October 2, 2025.
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