Before Kantara Made Him A Star, He Sold Water Bottles And Worked Odd Jobs

Before he became one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated filmmakers and actors with Kantara, Rishab Shetty’s life was defined by hustle, perseverance and a series of odd jobs. As the National Award-winning star turns 43 today, here’s a look at the remarkable journey that proves success rarely comes overnight. (File Photo)

Long before fame found him, Rishab Shetty worked wherever he could to support himself. He sold tea powder and water bottles, worked in hotels, dabbled in real estate and took on several other jobs while nurturing his dream of working in films. (Image: Instagram/@rishabshettyofficial)

Growing up in Karnataka, Shetty was deeply influenced by Yakshagana, the state’s traditional folk theatre. Its vibrant storytelling, music and performances would later become a defining influence on his filmmaking style, especially in Kantara. (Image: Instagram/@rishabshettyofficial)

Breaking into cinema wasn’t easy. Rishab began as a clap boy and spot boy before working as an assistant director. During this period, he also earned a diploma in film direction, slowly building the skills that would shape his career. (Image: Instagram/@rishabshettyofficial)

After years behind the scenes, Rishab made his directorial debut with Ricky in 2016. Although it received a mixed response, it opened doors for bigger opportunities and established him as a filmmaker to watch. (Image: IMDb)

Later that same year, Kirik Party became a massive commercial success. The coming-of-age drama turned Rishab into one of Kannada cinema’s most promising directors and earned him widespread recognition. (Image: IMDb)

Rishab proved he was just as talented in front of the camera. Films like Bell Bottom and Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana won praise for his performances and helped establish him as a versatile actor. (Image: IMDb)

In 2022, Rishab wrote, directed and starred in Kantara, a film rooted in Karnataka’s folklore and traditions. The movie became a pan-India phenomenon, won critical acclaim and transformed him into a household name. (Image: Instagram/@rishabshettyofficial)

The success of Kantara reached its peak when Rishab Shetty won the National Film Award for Best Actor. For someone who once sold tea powder and water bottles to make ends meet, it marked an extraordinary full-circle moment. (Image: IMDb)