From steering wheels to silver screens: The inspiring journey of a National Award Winner

In the city that never sleeps, dreams often come wrapped in struggles. Amidst the chaos of local trains in Mumbai and bustling film studios, a young man once drove producers to meetings and picked up scripts he could only dream of performing in. His days were filled with endless errands, yet his heart was set on something far beyond the rearview mirror- cinema.

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The Man Who Drove His Way to Stardom - Rishab Shetty

That young man was none other than Rishab Shetty, who would go on to win the National Award and redefine Kannada cinema. Back in 2008, Rishab worked as a producer’s driver and office boy in Andheri, Mumbai. Between long workdays, he observed the mechanics of filmmaking up close, silently nurturing his passion for acting and storytelling.

His humble beginnings were marked by resilience - eating vada pav for meals and sleeping in cramped rooms, yet never letting go of his cinematic dreams.

Early Steps into Cinema

Rishab’s initial years in the industry were far from glamorous. He began with small roles, often playing negative or supporting characters in films like Tuglak (2012) and Attahasa. But even in these limited appearances, his screen presence caught attention.

Gradually, he transitioned into direction and writing, proving that his storytelling instincts were as sharp as his acting skills.

The Rise of a Visionary Filmmaker

Rishab’s directorial debut Ricky and the critically acclaimed Kirik Party (2016) showcased his ability to balance realism with entertainment. The latter became a youth sensation, establishing him as a credible filmmaker. His knack for crafting rooted, culturally resonant stories set the stage for something far bigger - Kantara.

Kantara: A Global Phenomenon

When Kantara released in 2022, it was more than a film - it was a movement. The movie, written, directed, and headlined by Rishab Shetty, explored divine folklore and man’s bond with nature. It became one of India’s most talked-about films, earning massive critical and commercial success worldwide.

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Its prequel, Kantara: Chapter 1, released recently, shattered box office records, crossing Rs 100 crore in just three days, and reaffirmed Shetty’s place among India’s finest storytellers.