'Couldn't Have Done Without Daiva's Blessings': Rishab Shetty On Winning National Awards For Kantara

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posted on 1 month ago — updated on 1 second ago

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Over the past year, Kantara makers have been working diligently on the prequel to the film, shooting extensively in real locations and studios.

Rishab Shetty, who acted as the lead and directed the movie Kantara, won the National Awards for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment and Best Actor in a Leading Role. After receiving the award, he became emotional, recalling the challenges faced during the film’s production.

“Many Tulu films that have depicted Daiva worship have won awards. When these films become popular, people who are unaware of the original culture tend to imitate it, which can be painful to witness during various stage performances”, said Rishab Shetty.

He also said, “I too come from a Guthu family and have been a believer in Daiva worship. When we made the film, we sought the help of the community. We approached it with utmost sincerity and respect. For us, it wasn’t just a film.”

Rishab Shetty also said that the National Awards should go to the entire team. “This movie is about the Daiva Nartaka community and their traditions. The credit for the National Award belongs to the Daiva Nartaka community. Without the blessings of Daiva, the movie would not have reached this level”, he added.

He concluded by saying, “The movie has reached this point because of the blessings of Daiva. I dedicate this award to Daiva and place it at Daiva’s feet. We never expected the movie would win awards, and this has only been possible due to the love of the people. The shooting of Kantara 2 is currently underway, and the producers will announce the release date soon. Kantara 2 is shaping up very well, and I believe you will feel even more proud of it than you did with the previous Kantara.”

Kantara, which was mounted on a reported budget of Rs 16 crore by Hombale Films, went on to earn around Rs 450 crore across the globe. Over the past year, the team has been working diligently on the prequel to the film, shooting extensively in real locations and studios. According to a report, the shooting of Kantara 2 is nearing completion. Sources close to the project revealed that Rishab Shetty and his team have completed the exterior shoot and only 15-20 days are left for the interior shoot. The post-production of the film has already begun.