New Delhi:
Actor-director Rishabh Shetty says winning two National Film Awards for Kantarah has motivated him to tell more stories inspired by what he has seen in society. Shetty directed, co-wrote and starred in the Kannada blockbuster, which became a hit across the country. He is currently working on its prequel.
Still in disbelief, the director said that Kantara's winning of two National Awards was solely the result of the wishes and blessings of the people.
“There are many stories I want to tell about what I have seen in the society. These are the people who made the first film such a hit. We have to provide better content, entertain more and work harder,” Shetty told PTI.
“We have a big responsibility now. Such awards motivate you to do more good work. We are making a film with sincerity. People should like it, that's the main idea,” he added. Reportedly made on a budget of Rs 16 crore, Kantarah, produced by Hombale Films, has grossed over Rs 400 crore worldwide. It won the National Award for Popular Film Providing Complete Entertainment and fetched Shetty his first National Award for Best Actor.
When asked if he was nervous about the prequel “Kantara: Chapter 1” given the expectations and awards, the artist said he was not worried.
However, Shetty becomes a little tense just before the film's release.
“I feel the same way during the first matinee screening of a film. That's what happens to me every time. I've been thinking for a long time that I should make something that will bring both box office success and awards. But that's not how you start making a film,” he added.
Before Kanthara, which explores the man-nature conflict in the Kaadubettu forests of Karnataka, the director had won the National Award for the 2018 hit Sarkari Hi. Pra. Shail, Kasaragodu in the Best Children's Film category.
Shetty, who made his directorial debut in 2016 with Ricky, said he was initially completely engrossed in his work.
“When I came into this industry, I had opportunities here and there. I worked as an assistant director on a few films, then I got a chance to act, but it didn't materialize.
“So, 10 years of my life went by like that. There was no excitement or anticipation. Then I got the chance to direct. Before, I was just working and not too worried because I was just part of the film. I believe that everything that happens happens because of teamwork.” He may play multiple roles on set, but writing remains his top priority, followed by directing.
“Overall, 'Kanthara' is my fourth film as a director and hero, but this was the first time I was both directing and acting in the same film. I pitch the idea to my co-writers and then the brainstorming begins with my cinematographer, my wife (Pragati Shetty), who is the costume designer, and my producers. While that process is going on, I also keep thinking about how I will manage both direction and acting at the same time,” he said.
Regarding the Kantara franchise, Shetty said that Hombale Films gives him “complete freedom” and that the final decision always rests with him.
“They have a different relationship with me and with other artistes. I discuss the subject with them freely and exchange ideas. If I like their opinion, I take it into consideration. I don't have any ego.” Kanthara has a large fan following in the north, and actor-director Anurag Kashyap was effusive about it when the film released.
Shetty said he is a big fan of Kashyap. “I am inspired by his writing and cinema.” In future, he would like to collaborate with the likes of Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Mani Ratnam, Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth, he said.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated source.)