Actor-director Rishab Shetty, in a jubilant moment that reverberated throughout the Kannada film industry, has triumphed by bagging twin National Awards for his film Kantara. The accolades included the prestigious Best Actor award for his stirring performance and the title of Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment.
“In the film industry, they say one Friday can change everything. In my case, one film (Kantara) has changed everything,” Shetty expressed emotionally at a press conference held minutes after receiving the award on Friday, August 16, 2024. His voice brimming with gratitude, Rishab continued, “I continue to believe that Kantara wasn’t made. It just happened.”
The victory holds a promise beyond personal success for Shetty. He emphasized that these honors will significantly elevate Kannada cinema, putting it further into the national and international limelight. His hope is that this newfound recognition will pave the way for more profound storytelling and innovative filmmaking from the region.
Initially, there was buzz surrounding Malayalam superstar Mammootty’s chances of winning the Best Actor award. Addressing this, Rishab paid homage to Mammootty’s legacy, stating, “He is a legendary actor. I am blessed to have been in the race with him.” This humble acknowledgment spoke volumes about Rishab’s respect for the craft and his peers.
This isn’t the first time Shetty’s talent has been recognized at the National Awards. He first clinched this honor with his third directorial venture, Sarkari Hiriya Prathamika Shaale, Kasaragodu (SHPSK), which won Best Children’s Film. SHPSK, produced by his banner Rishab Shetty Films, catapulted him into the national consciousness. Reflecting on his journey, Rishab stated, “I only played cameos in my first three directorials. Kantara was the first film in which I essayed the lead under my direction. So this award feels special, especially when I look back at the days when I had begun to lose interest in acting.
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The event wasn’t just a milestone for Shetty but for Kannada cinema at large. KGF: Chapter 2, a film that has already attained legendary status, brought home two awards — Best Feature Film in Kannada and Best Action Choreography. Directed by Prashanth Neel and starring Yash, this period action-drama has redefined the parameters of success for regional cinema. KGF: Chapter 2 persisted in its winning spree, adding to the laurels it initially garnered with KGF: Chapter 1 in 2019, which won accolades for Best Special Effects and Best Action Choreography.
Both KGF: Chapter 2 and Kantara were backed by Vijay Kiragandur under Hombale Films, underscoring the production house’s commitment to delivering stellar cinematic experiences that resonate widely. These accolades are a testament to the vision and effort put in by Hombale Films to bring high-quality Kannada films to the forefront.
Moreover, the non-feature film segment also saw Kannada cinema shining brightly. Veteran editor Suresh Urs, known for his commendable work with director Mani Ratnam in classics like Bombay and Dil Se, won the Best Editing award for the short film Madhyantara. Suresh’s skillful editing has once again been recognized, highlighting his significant contributions to the craft over decades.
As Rishab Shetty revels in his well-deserved victory, his story becomes an inspiring narrative not just for aspiring filmmakers and actors but for the entire Kannada community. “One film can change everything,” as he aptly puts it, embodies the essence of perseverance, talent, and serendipity coming together.
For Kannada cinema, these laurels are more than just awards; they are a beacon of what the industry can achieve. As Rishab Shetty and his contemporaries continue to push the boundaries of storytelling and filmmaking, the future indeed looks promising. The dual triumphs of Kantara and KGF: Chapter 2 serve as a testament to the growth and potential of Kannada cinema, heralding a new era of creativity and recognition.
In conclusion, the 70th National Film Awards not only celebrated individual achievements but also underscored the collective rise of Kannada cinema on the national stage. These accolades are a tribute to the relentless spirit of filmmakers who believe in their vision and the magic of storytelling. As Rishab Shetty aptly encapsulated, “In the film industry, they say one Friday can change everything. In my case, one film (Kantara) has changed everything.” And indeed, it has.
