During an interaction with journalists, actor-director Rishabh Shetty talks about Kantara's prequel, Varaha Roopam song, and more.
Actor-director of Kantara fame, Rishab Shetty, during an interaction organised by Karnataka Chalanachitra Patrakartrara Sangh. (Supplied)
The blockbuster Kantara, which marked a milestone in the Indian film industry, brought the spotlight again on the Kannada film industry after the KGF franchise.
The makers of Kantara announced a second part, a prequel — not a sequel — triggering speculation over the plot, and the addition and deletion of characters, amongst others.
Actor-director Rishab Shetty, during an interaction with the members of the Karnataka Film Journalists’ Union, gave a sneak-peek into what the audience can expect in the Kantara prequel, and much more.
A still image from the film Kantara. (Supplied)
On the controversy over the Varaha Roopam song, which was in the news on charges of plagiarism, Rishab said, “The song Varaha Roopam in the film is to give a cinematic experience to the audience through the fusion of classical and Western music. I believe in justice and so in the Gods. I have prayed to Panjurli and Guliga, and I am certain that justice will be done in our favour.”
The Supreme Court on Friday, 10 February, allowed the makers to include the song in the movie.
On the second part of Kantara, Rishab explained: “What you have all seen is the sequel and the next version is the prequel. Already, fans and admirers have come up with their understanding of what could be in store in the next version of Kantara.”
The actor-director, on a lighter note, pointed out that he has already come across a few trailers for the prequel on social media.
However, he added that some are already speculating whether it is going to be the father’s character that will be predominant in the prequel.
“Well, it will be a story beyond all of these (speculations). I want to raise a few questions/concerns in the prequel. Maybe, the prequel would be an answer to some questions that the first Kantara had raised. Also, my whole intent is to pose new questions and concerns through the cinematic medium.”
Inspiring meeting PM @narendramodi ಅವರು as we discussed role of Entertainment industry in shaping New India and Progressive Karnataka. Proud to contribute towards #BuildingABetterIndia 🇮🇳 Your visionary leadership inspires us & your encouragement means the world to us @PMOIndia pic.twitter.com/M95vv2cJk2
— Rishab Shetty (@shetty_rishab) February 13, 2023
On the effects of Kantara’s success, especially highlighting the belief in the unique gods and the rituals of coastal Karnataka, the actor said that the award-winning film, Chomana Dudi, based on the novel by renowned Kannada writer K Shivarama Karanth, released in 1975, had all the elements of such supreme powers.
“I’m happy that Kantara has paved the way for love and affection towards our gods beyond fear and the devotional aspects. It brought me joy when the state government identified senior members from the community, who perform such divine rituals, and decided to facilitate them with monthly stipends,” he said.
Rishab, who plans a sabbatical shortly, said that he would cast his vote in the upcoming Assembly election.
He said that he has a few interesting films that are being made under his banner, directed by a bunch of talented filmmakers, including Vagachi Pani (Tiger Pond), Metro, and another one that will be released soon.
Also, his next with Rakshit Shetty, titled Bachelor’s Party, is not happening anytime soon. He said he wants to complete the prequel first.
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