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Shocking! Team of Rishab Shettys much-awaited Kantara: Chapter 1 has been hit by another tragic loss. Kalabhavan Niju a popular mimicry artist and actor from Kerala passed away at 40 on June 12 after suffering a heart attack. Niju died in Bengaluru where the film is currently in production. A report by Onmanorama claims that he began experiencing chest pain at his homestay where he was staying with other crew members. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital he couldnt be saved. The news was confirmed by Mimicry artist Kannan Sagar who shared a WhatsApp message around 10:30 pm on Thursday informing Nijus passing. Niju who had recently starred in the film Marco reportedly earned his place in Rishab Shettys Kantara 2 through auditions. Unfortunately he is third member from the Kantara 2s unit to pass away during the production. Just a week later in May actor and comedian Rakesh Poojary passed away due to cardiac arrest while attending a wedding. On the other hand MF Kapil a 32-year-old junior artiste drowned in the Karnatakas Souparnika river. Makers confirmed his demise expressing their deep sorrow later clarifying that the incident didnt occur on the sets. They wrote No filming was scheduled on that day and the unfortunate event would have occurred during his personal engagement outside the scope of any film related activity. Kantara: Chapter 1 a prequel to 2022 blockbuster Kantara is highly-anticipated fantasy action film Bankrolled by Vijay Kiragandur and Chaluve Gowda under the banner of Hombale Film the project is written and directed by Rishabh Shetty. Moreover he also stars in a prominent role opposite Jayaram. Set against the backdrop of the Kadamba dynasty the first look and teaser of Kantara: Chapter 1 was unveiled on 27 November 2023. Introducing Rishab Shetty in a powerful avatar the film is scheduled for release on 2 October 2025.