Kantara 2 Makers Clarify Junior Artist’s Death Was Not On Set, Slam False Reports
Kantara 2 team clarifies junior artist MF Kapil’s death didn’t happen on set, urges public to stop false links. AICWA demands FIR, cites cover-up fears.
The makers of Kantara: Chapter 1, the much-awaited prequel to the 2022 blockbuster Kantara, have broken their silence after the tragic death of junior artist MF Kapil. The 33-year-old, reportedly part of the film’s crew, drowned while swimming in a river near Kollur, Karnataka, on May 6.
Soon after news of his death broke, speculation arose linking the incident to the film’s shoot. In response, production house Hombale Films released an official statement on X (formerly Twitter), clarifying that no filming was taking place that day and the incident had no connection with the movie set.
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“We are deeply saddened by the untimely passing of junior artist M.F. Kapil. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time," the statement read.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of M.F. Kapil, may they find strength and peace in this difficult time. ಎಂ.ಎಫ್. ಕಪಿಲ್ ಅವರ ಅಗಲಿಕೆಯಿಂದ ನಮಗೆ ತೀವ್ರ ದುಃಖವಾಗಿದೆ. ಅವರ ಕುಟುಂಬಕ್ಕೆ ನಮ್ಮ ಸಂತಾಪಗಳು…🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/mG6JPLVC6m
— Hombale Films (@hombalefilms) May 8, 2025
It further noted, “In light of recent discussions, we would like to respectfully clarify that the incident did not occur on the sets of Kantara. No filming was scheduled on that day, and the unfortunate event took place during his personal engagement, outside the scope of any film-related activity. We sincerely request everyone to refrain from drawing unverified associations with the film or its crew."
Alongside the statement, the production house added, “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of M.F. Kapil, may they find strength and peace in this difficult time."
However, the All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has taken a strong stand on the matter. In a public statement, AICWA demanded legal action against actor-director Rishab Shetty and the producers of the film. The association also questioned the transparency surrounding the incident.
“AICWA expresses deep sorrow over the tragic demise of junior artist MF Kapil… who lost his life on May 6, 2025, around 3:45 PM near Souparnika River, close to Kollur, Karnataka, during the shooting of the film Kantara 2 (Chapter 1)," the statement read.
AICWA further alleged, “Whenever a worker loses their life on a film set, the actual cause is often concealed, and any worker attempting to reveal the truth is threatened. This practice… must end."
Directed by Rishab Shetty, Kantara: Chapter 1 is slated for release on October 2, 2025. The original film received widespread acclaim and was a major box-office success.
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