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Kantara’s Gods are Real: The untold myth of Panjurli and Gulega from Coastal Karnataka

Kantara introduced Panjurli and Gulega, but their real origin comes from 5,000-year-old Bhuta worship in coastal Karnataka. Here’s the story.

October 02, 2025 / 16:31 IST
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Kantara’s Gods are Real

When Kantara was released, millions were enthralled by its captivating plot and Rishab Shetty's exceptional performance. Beyond its drama and action, the film subtly introduced viewers to the ancient deities Gulega and Panjurli.

These characters are not fictional; they originate from the coastal Karnataka tradition of Turunadi, which is over 5,000 years old.

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Bhuta worship, as locals call it, isn’t about demons or evil spirits. These are guardian entities, tied to forests, villages, and families. They protect, they guide, they intervene—but only for those who respect nature and follow justice. And in Kantara, the stories of Panjurli and Gulega bring that age-old tradition right to the screen.

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