The Warrior's Training: Unpacking Rishab Shetty's Fitness and Preparation for 'Kantara'
Rishab Shetty's commitment to authentic performances in the Kantara franchise is clearly reflected in his rigorous physical and artistic preparation for his roles. His fitness regimen moves beyond typical gym workouts, deeply integrating traditional martial arts and cultural practices.
The Training Regimen
For the physically demanding roles in both Kantara and its prequel, Kantara Chapter 1, Rishab Shetty undertook extensive training in various traditional art forms and skills, which formed the core of his physical preparation.
Kalaripayattu: For Kantara Chapter 1, Rishab Shetty dedicated himself to training in Kalaripayattu, one of the world's oldest martial arts. His training was rigorous, spanning an entire year to master the precise techniques for the prequel. Reports also suggest a two-year intense training period for the film under Vipindas Gurukkal at Athma Kalari. This dedication was aimed at achieving authenticity and agility for his portrayal of a warrior.
Bhuta Kola: To authentically depict the traditional ritual performance of Bhuta Kola in Kantara, Rishab Shetty trained extensively to perfect the art form, resulting in a performance that was a significant highlight of the film.
Bull Racing (Kambala): For the intense bull race sequence in Kantara, Rishab Shetty performed the physically demanding feat himself without relying on a body double. He participated in the Kambala race, which required high endurance and skill, and the sequence was shot over 24 hours while he was simultaneously acting and directing.
Horse Riding and Sword Fighting: For the prequel, Kantara: Chapter 1, set during the Kadamba period, his preparation included mastering horse riding and sword fighting for the war sequences.
Physical Transformation
The intense and varied training led to a significant physical transformation for his role in Kantara Chapter 1, with the first look of the film showcasing a "bulked-up and chiseled" physique, embodying the strength required of his character.
Diet and Personal Rituals
In addition to his physical training, Rishab Shetty adopted specific dietary practices as part of his personal preparation for certain sequences, particularly those involving the Daiv Kola ritual.
Abstinence from Non-Vegetarian Food:
Rishab Shetty followed the practice of quitting non-vegetarian food for a period of 20–30 days before shooting the Daiv Kola sequence in Kantara. He also abstained from eating non-vegetarian food while shooting the Bhuta Kola portions of Kantara Chapter 1 to ensure "clarity of mind," as he is a "believer" in the deity.
Consumption During Daiv Kola:
During the Daiv Kola sequence after wearing the Alankar (costume), he would not consume anything except coconut water. He would also be given a prasad (offering) before and after performing the sequence.
Daily Food Habits:
Rishab Shetty reportedly prefers simple, home-cooked traditional food over star-hotel cuisine, choosing to eat what was consumed by his grandparents.
Rishab Shetty's commitment to authentic performances in the Kantara franchise is clearly reflected in his rigorous physical and artistic preparation for his roles. His fitness regimen moves beyond typical gym workouts, deeply integrating traditional martial arts and cultural practices.
The Training Regimen
For the physically demanding roles in both Kantara and its prequel, Kantara Chapter 1, Rishab Shetty undertook extensive training in various traditional art forms and skills, which formed the core of his physical preparation.
Kalaripayattu: For Kantara Chapter 1, Rishab Shetty dedicated himself to training in Kalaripayattu, one of the world's oldest martial arts. His training was rigorous, spanning an entire year to master the precise techniques for the prequel. Reports also suggest a two-year intense training period for the film under Vipindas Gurukkal at Athma Kalari. This dedication was aimed at achieving authenticity and agility for his portrayal of a warrior.
Bhuta Kola: To authentically depict the traditional ritual performance of Bhuta Kola in Kantara, Rishab Shetty trained extensively to perfect the art form, resulting in a performance that was a significant highlight of the film.
Bull Racing (Kambala): For the intense bull race sequence in Kantara, Rishab Shetty performed the physically demanding feat himself without relying on a body double. He participated in the Kambala race, which required high endurance and skill, and the sequence was shot over 24 hours while he was simultaneously acting and directing.
Horse Riding and Sword Fighting: For the prequel, Kantara: Chapter 1, set during the Kadamba period, his preparation included mastering horse riding and sword fighting for the war sequences.
Physical Transformation
The intense and varied training led to a significant physical transformation for his role in Kantara Chapter 1, with the first look of the film showcasing a "bulked-up and chiseled" physique, embodying the strength required of his character.
In addition to his physical training, Rishab Shetty adopted specific dietary practices as part of his personal preparation for certain sequences, particularly those involving the Daiv Kola ritual.
Abstinence from Non-Vegetarian Food:
Rishab Shetty followed the practice of quitting non-vegetarian food for a period of 20–30 days before shooting the Daiv Kola sequence in Kantara. He also abstained from eating non-vegetarian food while shooting the Bhuta Kola portions of Kantara Chapter 1 to ensure "clarity of mind," as he is a "believer" in the deity.
Consumption During Daiv Kola:
During the Daiv Kola sequence after wearing the Alankar (costume), he would not consume anything except coconut water. He would also be given a prasad (offering) before and after performing the sequence.
Daily Food Habits:
Rishab Shetty reportedly prefers simple, home-cooked traditional food over star-hotel cuisine, choosing to eat what was consumed by his grandparents.
- Morning Routine: He begins his day with a large cup of hot water, which he believes helps with metabolism and fat burning.
- Breakfast: His breakfast typically consists of simple home-cooked items such as idli, pongal, sambar, and chutney.
- Beans: Beans are reported to be a compulsory part of his diet.
- Dinner: He completes his dinner early, usually by 7:30 PM, and at the latest by 8:30 PM, unless he is busy with shooting.
- Snacking: If he feels hungry between shoots, he reportedly only consumes tender coconut water.
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