Mainstream films often suffer from the curse of the second half. After an engaging first half, a great plot goes down the drain. For Kannada cinema, the trend has reversed in the last couple of years. After a significant lull in the early part of 2025, the industry has bounced back yet again, delivering huge blockbusters and generating fresh talent.
Kantara: Chapter 1 has emerged as the year’s biggest blockbuster, while Su From So took everyone by surprise, racing to the 100-crore club with a horror comedy tale, a tricky genre. The industry saw local talents breaking boundaries and revelling in other language industries. Chaithra J Achar’s debut Tamil performance, 3BHK, received acclaim, giving her the confidence to venture into more challenging projects.
The industry also saw the arrival of two debut directors, Punit Rangaswamy with the terrific thriller, Elumale, and JP Thuminad with the hilarious Su From So. Shaneel Gautham, who starred in Su From So, co-wrote Rishab Shetty’s magnum opus, Kantara: Chapter 1. Joining these four in The Hindu’s Kannada Cinema Roundtable will be Kairam Vaashi, well-known film critic, known for his long, free-wheeling chats with the who’s who of the industry, as well as his eagerly awaited reviews.
The roundtable has been an annual event from The Hindu since 2023. This time, unlike previous editions, you can join us and also ask your questions. In line with our traditional format, the roundtable will feature artistes speaking about their journey through 2025, followed by a Q&A session.
To register, scan the QR code.
“To see my thoughts come alive on screen was an unforgettable moment,” says Shaneel, reflecting his joy at being part of the writing team of Kantara: Chapter 1. “2025 was a life-altering year for me,” says filmmaker Punit, basking in the success of Elumale.
We meet at the Mannheim Craft Brewery Whitefield, which is sprawled over an acre, offering a relaxing expanse of greenery along with 17 beers on tap. “Evenings at Mannheim Craft Brewery have a rhythm of their own—sometimes buzzing with lively exchange, sometimes settling into quiet reflection, but always held together by good company,” says Naveen Menon, CEO & Co-Founder, Mannheim Craft Brewery. He adds, “We’re honoured to host The Hindu Lit for Life Unplugged, a property we deeply admire for the thoughtful conversations and literary spirit it brings into our space.”
We have limited seats, so sign up now to find out what goes into making a 100-crore blockbuster, writing a pan-Indian project and giving a memorable performance on screen. Visit the link to register: https://newsth.live/UPBGLPA
The event is presented by the all-new Kia Seltos in association with CHRIST (Deemed to be University) and NITTE Meenakshi Institute of Technology. Associate Partner is Akshayakalpa Organic. The bookstore partner is Crosswords.
The Hindu’s Kannada Cinema Roundtable, part of The Hindu’s Lit for Life Unplugged, takes place on December 19 at 6pm. Entry is free but you must register ahead — the programming is on us, the drinks are on you.
Published – December 11, 2025 11:27 pm IST
