The World of Kantara Explained | ಕಾಂತಾರದ ದೈವ ಆರಾಧನೆಯ ಮೂಲ

From Dharmasthala to Kantavara, the legend of Panjurli Daiva runs deep through the forests and coasts of Karnataka. Long before Kantara took the world by storm — and with Kantara 2 now expanding its universe — Bhoota Kola was already a living theatre: part spiritual ritual, part social conscience, part art.

In this episode of Noorakke Nooru Karnataka, we explore the real tradition that inspired Rishab Shetty’s Kantara films — the Daiva Aradhane (spirit worship) of Tulu Nadu. Folklore scholar Umashanker Periodi takes us through the origins and meaning of this centuries-old ritual where faith, justice, and performance intertwine.

What is Kola and what is Nema? Why is Bhoota Kola called a spiritual theatre? How do the spirits act as counsellors, healers, and guardians of justice in their villages?

Step into the world where myth meets memory, and where Kantara’s cinematic vision finds its roots in living belief.