KL Rahul’s viral Kantara tribute inspired by Rishab Shetty during IPL match steals spotlight

KL Rahul Kantara viral tribute wins hearts

Rishab Shetty’s Kantara has become a cultural landmark in Kannada cinema, earning critical acclaim, a National Award, and massive box office success. Now, anticipation is sky-high for the film’s upcoming prequel, Kantara: Chapter 1, which is currently in production.

But even before the film’s release, it’s already making waves—this time, on the cricket field.

In a heartwarming tribute that took fans by surprise, cricketer KL Rahul turned into a full-fledged fanboy during an IPL 2025 match. Representing the Delhi Capitals, the star batter paid homage to Kantara after leading his team to a significant victory.

KL Rahul seems very impressed by Kantara. pic.twitter.com/JGb8TdAh5f

Vivek (@VivekChaub20241) April 12, 2025

In a moment that has since gone viral across social media platforms, Rahul was seen circling his bat on the ground—eerily reminiscent of a powerful scene from the original movie where Rishab Shetty performs a similar ritual using a wooden staff.

Later, Rahul spoke about the viral moment in a video posted by his IPL franchise. Offering insight into the emotional meaning behind his celebration, he shared, “This is a special place for me. That celebration was from one of my favourite movies, Kantara. So yeah, just a tiny reminder that this ground, this home, this turf is where I have grown—and this is mine.”

The way he says 'This is mine' pic.twitter.com/DKnWv2HcmN Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) April 11, 2025

Meanwhile, the buzz around Kantara: Chapter 1 continues to grow. Written and directed once again by Rishab Shetty, the prequel is expected to be a period fantasy action spectacle and is scheduled for a grand theatrical release on October 2, 2025.

In addition to this much-anticipated project, Rishab Shetty is also attached to two other major films: Jai Hanuman, directed by Prasanth Varma, and The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, helmed by Sandeep Singh—each promising to showcase powerful narratives on the big screen.