Banglan brings his vision to life in ‘Kantara: Chapter 1’

Following the record-breaking triumph of “Lokah Chapter-1,” which became the first Malayalam film to collect ₹300 crores worldwide, production designer Banglan has brought his ambitious vision to life in “Kantara: Chapter 1.” The Kerala-born visual architect, celebrated for his larger-than-life design language, continues to expand the horizons of Indian cinema. With Lokah still resonating with audiences and critics alike, Banglan turns his focus to “Kantara: Chapter 1,” a film that invites viewers into a meticulously built world rooted in legend and imagination.

“Kantara: Chapter 1” stands as one of the most anticipated films of the year. Directed by Rishab Shetty and produced by Hombale Films, the movie transports audiences to 4th century coastal Karnataka, exploring the ancient origins of the Bhuta Kola tradition and the spiritual bond between man, nature, and divinity. Banglan’s vision has been pivotal in shaping this universe as he recreates the landscapes, architecture, and atmosphere of a forgotten era with breathtaking authenticity. From intricate temples to vast coastal settlements, every frame reflects his commitment to detail and storytelling precision.

“The world of Kantara: Chapter 1 demanded a complete immersion into the history and geography of the time,” Banglan explains. “We worked closely with local artisans and historians to ensure that every element carried the essence of the 4th century. My goal was to make audiences feel they are stepping into a living, breathing world, not just watching one unfold on screen.”

The scale of the production mirrors Banglan’s ambition. Massive outdoor sets were constructed to replicate the raw beauty of coastal Karnataka, supported by elaborate war sequences, intricate props, and meticulously designed costumes. The film’s visual identity draws from real landscapes and folklore while elevating them into something deeply cinematic. With its theatrical release on October 2, “Kantara: Chapter 1” has been hailed as a landmark in Indian production design, blending mythology, history, and emotion into one sweeping cinematic experience.

Banglan’s design helped transform Kantara into a cinematic phenomenon, a fusion of Kerala’s folklore with epic scale, translated into an immersive visual experience. The acclaim for Kantara comes not only from audiences but also from industry peers, with filmmakers such as Prabhas and Jr NTR praising its visionary storytelling and recognizing Banglan’s contribution to its distinctive identity. His craft goes beyond decoration; every set is an extension of the film’s soul, guided by his belief that “every frame must carry the spirit of the story.” This philosophy has been evident since his earlier works such as Kammara Sambhavam, Kurup, and Lucky Bhaskar, each revealing his dedication to narrative depth and emotional resonance.

Beyond India, Banglan’s creative journey extends to Dubai, where he serves as the Head of Productions at Huckster Productions. Based in the UAE, Huckster has become a creative hub for Banglan’s international projects. “Dubai inspires me endlessly,” he shares. “Its architecture, its diversity, its light, everything here encourages visual exploration. Working between India and Dubai has allowed me to see how stories can transcend borders and speak to global audiences.” Through Huckster Productions, he collaborates with acclaimed filmmakers such as Srinath Rajendran (Kurup), using the UAE’s architectural marvels, deserts, and coastlines as living backdrops for both commercial and cinematic projects.

Banglan’s work in the UAE reflects a growing creative exchange between Indian and Emirati cinema. These collaborations have positioned Dubai not merely as a shooting location but as a creative partner in storytelling. His dual presence across India and the UAE allows him to draw from both worlds, Kerala’s folklore and Dubai’s modern landscapes, to create stories that transcend geography.

For Banglan, cinema has always been more than spectacle. It is a dialogue between time, culture, and imagination, a space where every detail matters. His journey from Kerala to Dubai, and from Lokah to Kantara, reflects a rare blend of vision and discipline. In every project, he redefines what production design can achieve, reminding audiences that great storytelling is not just seen but deeply felt.