Kantara: A Legend - Chapter 1

Abhimanyu Mathur of Hindustan Times also rated it 3/5 stars, stating that "Rishab Shetty almost excels in pulling off a worthy prequel aided by fine performances and visuals, but hurt by an uneven narrative."

Anandu Suresh of The Indian Express also gave 3/5 stars, noting that "While Rishab Shetty's 2022 movie had a soul, which communicated what it wished to say as loudly as the 'Woah!' of Guliga, in Kantara 2, all that remains is the scream, as the soul flickers in and out unsteadily."

Arjun Menon of Rediff.com rated it 3.5/5 stars and observed that "Kantara: A Legend Chapter-1 is an ambitious, bold update of the ideas of the first film on a much bigger canvas."

Bollywood Hungama also gave it 4/5 stars, writing that "On the whole, KANTARA: A LEGEND – CHAPTER 1 is not just a prequel; it’s an experience that deepens the world Rishab Shetty created while taking it to far greater cinematic heights.

Janani K of India Today rated it 4/5 stars and said that "Rishab Shetty's film explores the man vs nature conflict and land rights, blending them with divinity, folklore, myth, and faith.

Kashvi Raj Singh of News 18 rated it 3.5/5 stars and said that "Despite some forgivable flaws, the film is a visual treat, and the second half will surely leave you jaw-dropped.

Pranati A S of Deccan Herald gave it 2/5 stars and said that "The visually stunning prequel to Kantara has its moments, but it could have been better with sharper writing and a more grassroots politics."

Saibal Chatterjee of NDTV rated it 3/5 stars and wrote that "Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 is a manic, sometimes befuddling, mix of history, myth, cinematic craft and performative power.

Sashidhar Adivi of Filmfare also gave it 3.5/5 stars, writing that "Kantara: Chapter 1 delivers a powerful visual spectacle that stirs emotions through its grandeur, emotional depth, and powerful performances."