Google India’s most-searched films of 2025: Saiyaara tops the list, Kantara Chapter 1 ranks second

Google India’s most-searched films of 2025: Saiyaara tops the list, Kantara Chapter 1 ranks second

• Kantara Chapter 1 ranked second in Google India's most-searched films of 2025
• The film earned over Rs 850 crore worldwide, boosted by word-of-mouth and storytelling.
• Kantara Chapter 1 ends 2025 as the year's second highest-grossing Indian film

Did our AI summary help?

Kantara Chapter 1 has closed 2025 not just as a box office heavyweight but as one of the most searched films on Google India, underlining the scale of public interest it sustained throughout the year. According to Google India’s Year Ender list for 2025, the film ranked second among the most-searched movies, finishing just behind Saiyaara and ahead of several high-profile, star-driven releases.

The strong search volume reflects how Kantara Chapter 1 remained in active public conversation well beyond its theatrical release. From its announcement to the end of its run, audiences consistently looked up the film for its story, themes, performances and cultural context, rather than just spectacle or star appeal. This steady curiosity translated into sustained online engagement across the country.

Directed by Rishab Shetty and produced by Hombale Films, the film leaned deeply into folklore, land politics, faith and authority. Its rooted narrative, grounded in local traditions and language, appeared to strike a chord with viewers across regions. Search trends suggest that audiences repeatedly revisited the film’s ideas, symbolism and mythology, helping it maintain a strong digital footprint throughout the year.

This online momentum was mirrored at the box office. Kantara Chapter 1 went on to collect over Rs 850 crore globally, aided by dubbed versions, wider releases and strategic holiday screenings. Yet industry observers note that its staying power came less from scale and more from word-of-mouth around its storytelling and world-building.

Also Read: Salman Khan arrives in Jamnagar to ring in New Year 2026, warmly greets paparazzi at airport

On Google’s 2025 search list, the film shared space with titles such as Coolie, War 2, Sanam Teri Kasam, Marco, Housefull 5, Game Changer, Mrs and Mahavatar Narasimha. Despite fierce competition from mainstream franchises, Kantara Chapter 1 secured the second position, outperforming several big-ticket releases.

The film hit theatres on October 2 and initially emerged as the highest-grossing Indian film of the year, overtaking Chhaava starring Vicky Kaushal. While Dhurandhar, led by Ranveer Singh, later claimed the top spot, Kantara Chapter 1 ends 2025 firmly in second place among the year’s highest-grossing Indian films, capped by exceptional search interest that signals its lasting cultural impact.