As his statement went viral, critics pointed out his scenes with actor Sapthami Gowda in the film 'Kantara'.
Published Aug 21, 2024 | 4:18 PM ⚊ Updated Aug 21, 2024 | 4:18 PM
Rishab Shetty's claim that 'Bollywood depicts India negatively' sparks social media backlash. (X)
Kannada actor-director Rishab Shetty recently stirred controversy with remarks about Bollywood, following his National Award win for Kantara (2022).
In an interview, the Kannada actor criticised Bollywood for depicting India negatively at international film festivals and expressed his intent to portray India positively through his films.
Rishab Shetty won the Best Actor Award at the 70th National Film Awards for his role in Kantara. He also promotes his upcoming film, Laughing Buddha, which stars Pramod Shetty.
In a promotional interview with MetroSaga, Rishab Shetty remarked, “Indian films, particularly Bollywood, often present India negatively. These films receive red-carpet treatment at global events. My pride is in my nation, state, and language. Why not showcase them positively? That’s what I aim to do.”
The interview clip has gone viral, drawing mixed reactions. Critics have pointed out his scenes with actor Sapthami Gowda in Kantara, which were criticised for objectifying women and sparking debates about consent, labelling him a “hypocrite”.
After Rishab Shetty’s comments went viral, Reddit users reacted by sharing a clip from Kantara with the caption, “Meanwhile Rishab Shetty in his film”.
One user noted, “There’s also a scene where he peeks while a woman is bathing. While the movie was great, sexual harassment is too normalised in Indian cinema.”
Another comment pointed out, “As a child, I noticed something off about South Indian songs—it was the excessive sexualisation of the navel.”
RISHABH SHETTY – Indian films,especially Bollywood shows india in bad light !
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Another comment read, “This guy made one hit film and now thinks he’s the next Spielberg. Kantara is an overhyped movie with limited rewatch value and benefited from the anti-Bollywood sentiment that opened doors for regional cinema.”
The 70th National Film Awards were announced on 16 August, where Rishab Shetty expressed his gratitude for the honour and thanked his team for their support.
Kantara made a significant impact, winning the Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment Award at the 70th National Film Awards for 2022. This recognition highlights the film’s success in engaging storytelling and entertainment.
Meanwhile, Kantara-A Legend Chapter 1, the highly anticipated prequel to the original film, is preparing for its fourth shooting schedule. The first-look teaser has heightened excitement by showcasing Rishab Shetty in a dramatic new role. The upcoming schedule will feature a major action sequence, boosting the film’s visual appeal and raising expectations.
As fans await its release, Kantara-A Legend Chapter 1 promises to deliver a memorable cinematic experience, with the fourth schedule set to enhance the film further.
(Edited by Y Krishna Jyothi)
