Kantara 2 Tragdey: Kerala Actor Drown In Souparnika River In Udupi

In a devastating incident, a crew member of the upcoming Kannada movie Kantara 2 drowned in the Souparnika River near Kollur in Udupi district on May 6, leaving the film industry and locals in shock.

Kerala Man Drowns

The victim, identified as 32-year-old Kabeel from Kottayam, Kerala, was reportedly swimming with two colleagues after a day's shoot when he lost his footing and was pulled under by strong currents. Despite swift rescue efforts by authorities and local volunteers, Kabeel could not be saved, according to a report in Daijiworld.

Police have launched an investigation into the incident. The Kantara 2 team, filming in the coastal region, is said to be deeply shaken.

The Souparnika River, known for its scenic beauty, has previously been flagged for dangerous undercurrents, particularly during the pre-monsoon season. The tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the risks posed by natural water bodies.

Kantara 2 is written and directed by Rishab Shetty. Funded by Vijay Kiragandur, the film is scheduled to release in October 2025.

Kantara 2 Facing One After The Other

A few months ago, the junior artistes from the Kannada movie had met with an accident after the bus that they were travelling overturned in Udupi. "The incident happened while they were returning to Kollur after completing the shoot at Mudoor in Jadkal. The mini-bus was carrying 20 junior artists when it met with the accident," a police officer had said.

The movie has been in the news for one or the other reason in the last couple of months. There was a controversy following the allegations of the Kantara 2 team violating environmental norms in Heruru village which had irked the localities. The use of explosives during the shooting had not gone well with villagers.

Actor-filmmaker Rishab Shetty and his wife have taken part in the annual 'Daiva Nema' ritual at Derebail in Mangaluru.

The ceremony, held in honor of deities Varahi Panjurli and Jarandaya, turned into a divine experience for Shetty. During the ritual, he reportedly confided his struggles related to the film to the presiding 'Daiva' (refers to divine spirits or deities unique to coastal Karnataka), who responded with both a stark warning and comforting assurance.

"You have enemies across the world. There are those who seek to destroy your home and your work," the deity is said to have warned. "But do not fear. The 'Daiva' you believe in will never abandon you." The spirit further assured, "Though I won't reveal who is behind this, I will shield you from harm. Make a vow of service, and all will be set right within five months."