In a heartfelt revelation about the journey of Kantara, Rishab Shetty shared that he had never intended to step in front of the camera as the film’s lead. The actor filmmaker, whose performance became one of the most celebrated aspects of the film, opened up about how the decision to play the lead came as a turning point in his life.
Speaking about the film’s journey, Rishab revealed that he never intended to act in Kantara. As reported by News 18, he said, “When I first wrote the story, I only wanted to direct it. I had no plan to play the lead role.” He explained that he was confident about the story but did not imagine himself as the hero. This honest confession surprised many, as his performance became one of the film's biggest highlights.
Rishab Shetty then spoke about how his wife, Pragathi Shetty, played a key role in changing his decision. He shared, “She told me that I should play Shiva and that no one else would suit the role better.” He added, “She gave me the confidence to take up the role.” During the event, he even invited her on stage and thanked her for being a strong support system throughout the journey. The emotional moment received loud applause from the audience.
Kantara went on to achieve massive critical acclaim and commercial success, earning top honours including Best Actor, Best Director, and Best Film. Reflecting on this milestone, Rishab expressed deep gratitude and humility. He said, “This movie is not mine. It belongs to the entire cast and the audience.” He also dedicated the award to the people and his faith in God, which convinced him to write this story.
The journey of Kantara stands as a powerful reminder of how conviction, faith, and the support of loved ones can shape destinies. Rishab’s story behind the film adds an emotional layer to its success, making it even more inspiring for audiences across the country.
As he continues to build on this remarkable momentum, Rishab Shetty is now gearing up for his next project, Jai Hanuman.