Rishab Shetty

Rishab Shetty showcased an elegant yet understated look in a black silk-cotton kurta paired with an ivory dhoti, complete with the powerful Gandaberunda symbol, a proud emblem of Karnataka's heritage. Following his performance in the acclaimed 2025 film Kantara: Chapter 1, Shetty is gearing up for an ambitious two-part project on Shivaji Maharaj and is also teaming up with Prashanth Varma for the much-anticipated sequel, Jai Hanuman.

Kannada actor-director Rishab Shetty received two honors at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2026. He won Best Director for his film Kantara: Chapter 1, which was released in 2025. Shetty also received the prestigious Leadership in Cinema Award at the Melbourne event. His traditional attire for the awards ceremony garnered significant attention from attendees. The film Kantara: Chapter 1 explores the origins of Daiva worship in Tulunadu.

At the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2026, Rishab Shetty garnered two prestigious awards: Best Director and the Leadership in Cinema Award for his acclaimed film. In his acceptance speech, he reflected on the challenging and adventurous path of creating Kantara. This accolade underscores his rising prominence on the international stage and showcases his distinctive storytelling that delves into culturally enriched Indian narratives.

Wamiqa Gabbi has reportedly joined the cast of Prasanth Varma's mythological action epic Jai Hanuman. She will be starring alongside Rishab Shetty, who leads the film as Lord Hanuman. Her character details remain undisclosed as production continues in Hyderabad. This casting follows Wamiqa Gabbi's recent success in the Tamil film DC. Jai Hanuman is a sequel to the superhero film Hanu-Man and explores Hanuman's role in Kaliyug.

Dulquer Salmaan secured the Best Actor award at the 17th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2026. He received this honor for his compelling performance in the film 'Kaantha'. Rishab Shetty also garnered two significant awards, including Best Director for 'Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1'. Meanwhile, Dulquer Salmaan's upcoming film 'I'm Game' has shifted its release date. The movie will now premiere worldwide on September 3, 2026.

Kantara star Rishab Shetty shared his appreciation for the Ramayana-The Introduction trailer. He lauded the film's convincing cinematic world and the team's efforts. Shetty also praised the cast for their responsible portrayal of iconic mythological figures. He highlighted Ranbir Kapoor's divine presence and Yash's impactful performance as Raavana. The music by A.R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer further elevated the trailer's emotions.

Actor and filmmaker Rishab Shetty is set to be awarded the Leadership in Cinema Award, honoring his impactful contributions to the dialogue surrounding global Indian cinema. The award ceremony will take place on August 13 in Melbourne, Australia. Shetty expressed his heartfelt appreciation and excitement for the recognition of the diversity in Indian cinema. Festival Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange commended Shetty's filmmaking for its global relevance.

Actor Kiran Abbavaram will star in the upcoming mythology film 'Indraputra'. This project marks his entry into a new genre, exploring dharma and adharma. Principal photography for the film is scheduled to begin in October this year. Director Srikanth Puppala makes his feature film debut with this ambitious project. The makers plan to build 'Indraputra' as the first chapter of a larger mythological universe.

Bhumi Pednekar addressed the language used during ongoing protests on Instagram. She emphasized that abusive language is not part of Indian culture. Pednekar stated that respectful communication is essential for national progress and unity. Her remarks have drawn reactions from other public figures and netizens. The actress is currently working on several upcoming film projects.

Once envisioned as a grand cinematic retelling of the Ramayana with Salman Khan in the lead, this project was abruptly halted after completing forty percent of its filming. The decision stemmed from personal disagreements instead of financial trouble. As the genre of mythological films revives interest among audiences, this unfinished film sparks curiosity about what might have been in the realm of Hindi cinema.

Bhumi Satish Pednekkar has joined the cast of The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, where she will portray Belawadi Mallamma, the warrior queen of Karnataka. Headlined by Rishab Shetty as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the historical drama marks Bhumi’s first foray into this space. Calling the opportunity a privilege, she says she was drawn to the project after hearing director Sandeep Singh’s narration and describes the role as unlike anything she has done before. The two-part film also features Arjun Rampal and Vivek Oberoi and is scheduled to go on floors later this year.

Dia Mirza and Saba Azad actively participated in a vital debate regarding the NEET protest. Mirza expressed her discontent with Bhumi Pednekar's remarks about the protest's language. She emphasized the critical issues of police brutality and the online harassment faced by women. Previously, Pednekar had condemned the offensive language aimed at the Prime Minister and described the Education Minister's resignation as a significant democratic event.

Rishab Shetty will portray Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in a large-scale film. An international team of action directors has joined the project. The movie, titled 'The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj,' is planned for two parts. The first chapter is expected to release in 2028, with the second following in 2029. Arjun Rampal and Shefali Shah are also part of the film's cast.

Bengali cinema will be highlighted at the 17th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. The festival showcases contemporary dramas, restored classics, and short films from the region. Several Bengali films will explore themes of identity, relationships, and social realities. Directors express excitement and humility for their films' selections and nominations. The festival celebrates the depth and reach of Indian storytelling.

Vivek Oberoi celebrated Rishab Shetty’s birthday with warm wishes, commending his remarkable cinematic vision. Both actors are set to join forces in the historical film 'The Pride of Bharat,' a captivating two-part saga that chronicles the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Rishab Shetty takes on the role of Shivaji Maharaj, while Vivek Oberoi embodies Aurangzeb. The film is expected to hit theaters in January 2027.

Rishab Shetty confirmed that work on the Kantara franchise's next installment has begun. He expressed his passion for directing and the fulfillment it brings him. Shetty also revealed two major acting projects are lined up for him. These films include Jai Hanuman and The Pride of Bharat. He will maintain distinct looks for both upcoming acting roles.

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne has revealed its nominations for the seventeenth edition. This year's festival will take place from August 13 to August 23, 2026. Prominent actors like Aamir Khan and Mammootty are nominated for Best Actor. Several popular streaming series and films also received nominations. Winners will be announced at the festival's closing ceremony.

Rishab Shetty celebrates his birthday, marking a successful career after years of struggle. He previously sold tea powder and worked in marketing before his film breakthrough. His creative vision was shaped by Yakshagana, influencing his acclaimed film Kantara. The Kantara franchise has achieved significant commercial and critical success. Rishab Shetty maintains a private family life with his wife and two children.