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Third Crew Member Dies During Kantara: Chapter 1 Shoot

The film remains scheduled for an October 2, 2025 release despite three crew fatalities during shooting.

Kalabhavan Niju was shooting for Rishab Shetty's Kantara Chapter 1 when he died.
Kantara Chapter One: Mimicry Artist And Rishab Shetty's Co-Star Kalabhavan Niju Dies Of Heart Attack At 43
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Overview

  • Veteran mimicry artist Kalabhavan Niju, 43, suffered a fatal heart attack on June 13 while shooting in Bengaluru and could not be revived.
  • His death marks the third fatality linked to Kantara: Chapter 1 following junior artiste M.F. Kapil’s drowning in May and actor Rakesh Poojary’s cardiac arrest earlier that month.
  • Niju was staying at a homestay arranged for the cast when he complained of severe chest pain and was rushed to a local hospital.
  • Kantara: Chapter 1 serves as a prequel to Rishab Shetty’s 2022 hit Kantara, with Shetty reprising the lead role in the historical fantasy action film.
  • Produced by Hombale Films, the project has endured multiple setbacks but is still set for its October 2, 2025 release.