Name: Rishab Shetty
Profession: Actor, Film Director, Producer, Screenwriter
Born: July 7, 1983 in Keradi, Kundapura, Karnataka, India
Nationality: Indian
Known for: Kantara, Kirik Party, Sarkari Hi. Pra. Shaale, Kasaragodu, Koduge: Ramanna Rai, Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana, Bell Bottom
Biography
Born as Prashanth Shetty in Keradi, Karnataka, Rishab Shetty reinvented himself as a dynamic force in Kannada cinema. Beginning his journey as a Yakshagana artist and participating in local theatre, he balanced his early life with studies in commerce.
Later on, he earned a diploma in film direction from the Government Film and TV Institute in Bengaluru. He started his film career working in various capacities— from a clap boy and assistant director on projects like Cyanide to small acting roles in films such as Tuglak and Lucia.
His directorial debut with Ricky in 2016 paved the way for subsequent hits like Kirik Party, which not only resonated with audiences but also earned him accolades at prestigious award ceremonies.
Shetty further established his versatility by directing and acting in critically acclaimed films such as Sarkari Hi. Pra. Shaale, and later, by portraying memorable characters in Bell Bottom and Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana.
His blockbuster film Kantara, where he played dual roles, has redefined regional cinema by achieving both critical and commercial success, and he continues to push creative boundaries with upcoming projects like his portrayal of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in The Pride of Bharat and the prequel Kantara: Chapter 1.
Awards and Accolades
- National Film Award for Best Children’s Film for Sarkari Hi. Pra. Shaale, Kasaragodu, Koduge: Ramanna Rai
- SIIMA Award for Best Director for Kirik Party
- Filmfare Award for Best Director (Kannada) for Kirik Party
- National Film Award for Best Actor for Kantara
Interesting Facts
- His real name is Prashanth Shetty, and he adopted “Rishab Shetty” as his screen persona.
- Before breaking into films, he worked various odd jobs, including selling water cans, to support his early passion for acting.
- He has a close collaborative bond with Rakshit Shetty, with whom he worked on Kirik Party and other projects.
- Rishab’s innovative storytelling in Kantara brought international attention to Kannada cinema.
Social Media
Twitter: @shetty_rishab
Instagram: @rishabshettyofficial
