Following allegations by local villagers that the crew of Kantara: Chapter 1 has violated norms during the shoot of the film in the Heruru forest area of Karnataka, Forest Department officials have refuted the claims.

A prequel to Kantara (2022), Kantara: Chapter 1, acted in and directed by Rishab Shetty, is expected to release later this year, and is currently being filmed in the forests of Karnataka. According to the villagers, the crew had brought the filming equipment to the location without obtaining the necessary permissions. The Forest Department officials then imposed a fine of Rs. 50,000 on them and granted permission to shoot from January 5 to 25, they said.

The local people further said that the crew was causing destruction by bursting crackers in the forest, which forced wild animals to flee into the nearby villages. They also accused the unit members of assaulting them over raising objection.

However, Forest Department officials have refuted the allegations after inspecting the shooting site. Yesaluru Deputy Range Forest Officer Somashekar told Deccan Herald, “They had created a small fire on the gomala land, where the team has obtained permission for shooting. However, no rules were violated in the deemed forest area.”

Deputy Conservator of Forests Saurabh Kumar added, “The film team is shooting after obtaining necessary permission. The officials have inspected the spot. Suitable measures would be taken based on the report”.