Tragic Loss in Kantara: Chapter 1 as Kalabhavan Niju Passes Away

The production of Kantara: Chapter 1 has been marred by tragedy with the sudden passing of Kalabhavan Niju, a popular mimicry artist and actor from Kerala. At just 43 years old, Niju suffered a heart attack while filming in Bengaluru. This incident adds to a series of unfortunate events linked to the film's production, including the earlier deaths of other cast members. Kantara: Chapter 1, directed by Rishab Shetty, is set to release in theaters on October 2, 2025. Read on to learn more about this heartbreaking news and the film's background.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 14, 2025, 18:36 IST

Heartbreaking News from the Set of Kantara: Chapter 1

The production of Kantara: Chapter 1 has been struck by a tragic event. Kalabhavan Niju, a well-known mimicry artist and actor from Kerala, died at the age of 43 due to a heart attack in Bengaluru on Thursday night.

As reported by local media, Niju was staying at a homestay designated for the cast during the ongoing filming when he suddenly experienced intense chest pain. Despite immediate attempts to transport him to a hospital, he could not be revived. Fellow mimicry artist Kannan Sagar confirmed the news, stating that he learned of Niju's death through a WhatsApp group message around 10:30 PM.

Niju's last appearance was in the film Marco, and he had reportedly auditioned for a part in Kantara: Chapter 1, which is directed by Rishab Shetty and produced by Hombale Films, known for KGF and Salaar.

This unfortunate incident is not the first associated with the film's production. Earlier this year, Kannada actor-comedian Rakesh Poojary passed away from a cardiac arrest at a wedding at the young age of 33. Just days prior, MF Kapil, a 32-year-old junior artist from Kerala, tragically drowned in the Souparnika River during a shoot. In November 2024, a minibus carrying 20 junior artists was involved in an accident in Mudoor, but fortunately, all were unharmed. Additionally, a grand set constructed for the film suffered damage due to heavy rainfall.

Overview of Kantara: Chapter 1

Kantara: Chapter 1 serves as a prequel to the 2022 hit film Kantara, directed by and starring Rishab Shetty. This period drama is set during the Kadamba dynasty's reign in Banavasi. The film also features actors Jayaram, Kishore, Jayasurya, and Jisshu Sengupta, and is slated for release in theaters on October 2, 2025.