Rishab Shetty on winning the 70th National Award for ‘Kantara’: It motivates me to do more good work, there are lots of stories that I want to tell | Kannada Movie News Filmymeet

Rishab Shetty’s ‘Kantara’ has continued to gain attention for its phenomenal contribution to the entertainment industry ever since its release in 2022. The actor was recently awarded the 70th National Award for Best Actor. The movie also won the title for Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment in the 70th National Awards. Rishab has finally opened up about the win and the overwhelming love he has received for his directorial venture.
During an interview with PTI, Rishab said, ‘There are lots of stories that I want to tell about what I’ve seen in society.It’s the people who made the first film such a big hit. We have to give better content, entertain more, and work harder.’
‘It’s more of a responsibility on us now. Awards like these motivate you to do more good work. We make a film wholeheartedly. People should like it, that’s the main thought,’ he added.

‘I feel the same during the first morning show of the film. That’s what happens to me every time. I had thought long ago that I have to do something that achieves both box office success and awards. But that’s not how you start making a film,’ he further added.
Reflecting on his early days, he said, ‘When I came into the industry, I got some opportunities here and there. I worked as an assistant director on a couple of films, then got a chance to act, but it didn’t materialize.’
‘So, 10 years of my life went by just like that. There was no excitement or expectation. Then, I got a chance to direct. I used to just work and tend not to get overexcited because I’m just a part of the film. I believe whatever happens is because of teamwork,’ he shared.
‘Overall, Kantara is my fourth film as a director and a hero, but this was the first time I both directed and acted in the same film. I take the idea to my co-writers, and then our brainstorming begins with my DOP, my wife (Pragathi Shetty), who is a costume designer, and my producers. While this process is underway, I also keep thinking about how I will manage directing and acting simultaneously,’ he said.
Moreover, while speaking about his relationship with Hombale Films, he said, ‘They have a different equation with me and a different equation with the other artists. I freely discuss the subject with them and exchange ideas. If I like their inputs, I take them into account. I don’t have any ego.’

On the work front, Rishab Shetty is working on the much-awaited prequel to the 2022 hit film ‘Kantara,’ titled ‘Kantara Chapter 1.’ Additionally, he is expected to collaborate with Bollywood director Ashutosh Gowariker on a new project.