Rishab Shetty, the talented actor and filmmaker, has recently won the National Award for Best Actor for his remarkable performance in Kantara (2022). In a heartfelt conversation about his win, Shetty shared that this recognition has given him a renewed sense of responsibility and a strong motivation to work even harder in his craft.
Rishab Shetty On Winning National Award
Expressing his surprise at receiving the award, Shetty said, “I never imagined I would win the Best Actor award. Bahut khushi ho rahi hai!” He credits his success to the blessings of the Daiva and acknowledges the immense love and support he has received from his fans. He believes that their encouragement has played a crucial role in his journey and this achievement.
A Deeper Responsibility
For Shetty, winning the National Award is not just a personal milestone; it also represents a greater sense of duty. At 41, he feels that this honor pushes him to raise his game in future projects. “It has truly motivated me to work even harder and put in more effort into all my future endeavors,” he explained.This commitment to improvement reflects his passion for storytelling and dedication to his craft.
Honoring Local Culture in Kantara
At the core of Kantara is the Bhoota Kola tradition, an important annual ritual celebrated by Tulu-speaking communities in coastal Karnataka. This tradition involves worshiping local spirits and deities, and Shetty is proud of how the film connects to these rich cultural practices. However, he also expresses concern about how viewers might interpret these rituals.
“I am worried that some viewers may trivialize these rituals after watching the film,” he said. He urges everyone to understand that these traditions are not merely entertainment but are vital components of the local culture and belief systems. Shetty emphasized that all rituals depicted in the film were carefully crafted with the participation of local communities. He appeals to audiences to respect these sacred traditions and avoid treating them lightly.
The Future of Kannada Cinema
When asked about the impact of his recognition on Kannada cinema, Shetty believes that the reach of this regional industry is expanding. He is optimistic that the success of Kantara will inspire more people to look forward to stories from Kannada cinema. “The next goal is to deliver even more compelling stories to audiences,” he said, indicating his determination to contribute meaningfully to the film landscape.
Rishab Shetty’s recent National Award win is not just a personal achievement but a significant moment for Kannada cinema. With a strong sense of responsibility and a passion for storytelling, he is motivated to continue creating films that honor local traditions and resonate with audiences. His commitment to authenticity and respect for cultural practices underscores the importance of storytelling that reflects the richness of diverse communities. As he looks to the future, Shetty aims to captivate audiences with more powerful narratives that celebrate the unique heritage of his region.
