The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has demanded an impartial investigation into the death of ‘Kantara Chapter 1’ junior artist MF Kapil. AICWA has also demanded an FIR against Rishab Shetty and the owners of the production house. In a media release, AICWA expressed deep sorrow over the unfortunate demise of junior artist MF Kapil, aged 33, a resident of Moosarithara, Vaikom, Kerala, who lost his life on May 6, allegedly during the shooting of the film “Kantara Chapter 1.”
According to AICWA, the actor and producer Rishab Shetty and his team have reportedly stated that “drowning while swimming” was the cause of the junior artist’s death. AICWA claimed, “According to the film’s producer and owner of the production house, Rishab Shetty, the cause of death has been stated as drowning while swimming in the river. An FIR has been registered at Kollur Police Station regarding this incident.”
AICWA is gravely concerned about fatalities on film sets, citing recent accidents that have claimed the lives of people working on film productions, including the deaths of technicians during the shooting of Tamil films “Indian 2” and “Sardar 2,” and a tragic incident involving 20 junior artists traveling by bus last November. AICWA urges the Chief Minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah, to initiate a “high level, impartial investigation” into the death of MF Kapil to ensure “justice” for his family. Furthermore, AICWA demands that an FIR be filed against producer Rishab Shetty and the production house, as well as financial compensation of Rs 1 crore to the bereaved family, acknowledging the immense loss they have suffered.
The AICWA shared the media release through their X handle, emphasizing the need for accountability in the film industry.
Amid the controversy, Adarsh JA, the Executive Producer of Kantara Chapter 1, clarified that the death of MF Kapil did not happen on the sets of the movie, as there was no shooting scheduled on that day. In a note sent by the team of Kantara Chapter 1, Adarsh JA stated, “We deeply regret the unfortunate incident and would like to respectfully clarify that it did not take place on the sets of Kantara. In fact, there was no shooting scheduled on the day the incident occurred. The incident happened during his personal trip with friends. We request everyone to kindly avoid any speculation linking it to the film.”
Hombale Films also shared a note to offer their condolences to the family of Junior Artist MF Kapil. They clarified that the incident took place during his “personal engagement, outside the scope of any film-related activity.” In their official statement, they said, “We are deeply saddened by the untimely passing of junior artist M.F. Kapil. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. In light of recent discussions, we would like to respectfully clarify that the incident did not occur on the sets of Kantara. No filming was scheduled on that day, and the unfortunate event took place during his personal engagement, outside the scope of any film-related activity. We sincerely request everyone to refrain from drawing unverified associations with the film or its crew.”
Kantara Chapter 1 is the prequel to the superhit movie Kantara, which stars Rishab Shetty in the lead role. The movie is currently in production and is scheduled for release on October 2, 2025.
The death of MF Kapil has sparked significant discussion in the film industry, particularly regarding safety measures and the treatment of workers on set. AICWA's call for an investigation reflects ongoing concerns about the working conditions faced by film industry workers, especially in light of recent tragedies. The association's statement emphasized that “whenever a worker loses their life on a film set, the actual cause is often concealed, and any worker attempting to reveal the truth is threatened. This practice of covering up the reality behind such tragic incidents must end.”
As the investigation unfolds, many are watching closely to see how the industry responds to these calls for change and accountability. The incident has raised questions about the responsibilities of producers and the need for transparency in the face of tragedies that occur during production.
In the wake of this incident, the film community is hopeful for a resolution that honors the memory of MF Kapil and ensures that future productions prioritize the safety and well-being of all crew members. As the film Kantara: Chapter 1 approaches its release date, the implications of this tragedy may resonate throughout the industry for some time to come.
As the discussions continue, the focus remains on ensuring justice for MF Kapil's family and preventing similar incidents in the future. The AICWA's demands for accountability and transparency represent a critical step toward improving working conditions in the film industry.
