Rishab Shetty – Biography, Career, Movies, Net Worth & Personal Life
Rishab Shetty is a celebrated Indian film actor, director, writer, and producer, widely known for his contributions to Kannada cinema and for bringing regional stories to national attention. From humble beginnings to creating blockbuster films like Kantara, Shetty’s journey is inspiring and remarkable.
Early Life & Background
Rishab Shetty was born on 7 July 1983 in Keradi, Kundapura, Karnataka, into a modest family. Before entering cinema, he worked various jobs, including selling water cans and working in hotels, while nurturing his passion for films.
He completed his Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com.) from Bhandarkar’s Arts & Science College in Kundapura and then pursued a diploma in Film Direction from the Government Film and TV Institute in Bangalore to refine his filmmaking skills.
Shetty initially worked as a clap boy and spot boy, then as an assistant director in the Kannada film industry, where he met filmmaker Rakshit Shetty — a collaboration that played a crucial role in his career development.
Career Beginnings
Rishab Shetty’s early roles were small: he appeared as a police officer in Lucia (2013) and had significant supporting parts in films like Ulidavaru Kandante. His ambition to direct led him to make his directorial debut with Ricky (2016), which received an average response but introduced him as a filmmaker.
Breakthrough & Rise to Fame
Kirik Party (2016)
Shetty’s major directorial breakthrough came with Kirik Party (2016), a campus comedy-drama that became a huge commercial hit and earned praise for its youthful storytelling.
Sarkari Hi. Pra. Shaale, Kasaragodu, Koduge: Ramanna Rai (2018)
This film won the National Film Award for Best Children’s Film and cemented Shetty’s stature as a director who could blend entertainment with strong emotional narratives.
Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana (2021)
Shetty showcased his acting depth with this gritty gangster drama — a film that earned critical acclaim and reinforced his versatility.
Mishan Impossible (2022)
Shetty made his Telugu film debut as an actor in this comedy-action film, expanding his reach into other regional cinemas.
Kantara: A Phenomenon (2022 & 2025)
Kantara: A Legend (2022) and its follow-up Kantara: Chapter 1 (2025) represent milestones in Shetty’s career. Written, directed, produced, and headlined by him, Kantara blends folklore, culture, and action, deeply rooted in coastal Karnataka’s traditions.
The film became a pan-India blockbuster and one of the highest-grossing Kannada films ever. Kantara: Chapter 1 has grossed hundreds of crores worldwide, surpassing many large-budget films, and was released in multiple languages with universal acclaim.
This success propelled Shetty into the national spotlight and solidified his reputation as a storyteller capable of merging local culture with universal appeal.
Filmography: Rishab Shetty Movies
Rishab Shetty has played multiple roles in cinema — as an actor, director, writer, and producer. Some of his notable films include:
As Director / Actor / Writer
Ricky (2016) – Directorial debut
Kirik Party (2016) – Director
Sarkari Hi. Pra. Shaale, Kasaragodu… (2018) – Director
Katha Sangama (2019) – Multiple roles
Kantara (2022) – Writer, Director, Actor
Kantara: Chapter 1 (2025) – Writer, Director, Actor
Kantara: Chapter 2 (2026) – Upcoming
The Pride Of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (2027) – Actor
Laughing Buddha (2024) – Producer
Acting Roles Only
Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana (2021)
Bell Bottom (2019) – Actor
Mishan Impossible (2022) – Telugu debut actor
Harikathe Alla Girikathe (2022) – Actor
He’s also appeared in cameo roles in films like Hostel Hudugaru Bekagiddare.
Distinctive Directorial Style
Shetty’s films are known for:
Cultural authenticity (especially Kannada folklore)
Strong narrative rooted in rural settings
Blend of emotion, realism, and entertainment
Music and visual language that reflect tradition
Awards & Recognition
National Film Award for Best Children’s Film – Sarkari Hi. Pra. Shaale… (2018)
Karnataka State Film Awards and critical acclaim for storytelling
Kantara received widespread accolades domestically and globally.
Rishab Shetty Net Worth
Rishab Shetty’s success in direction, acting, and production has grown his wealth significantly. As of 2025, his estimated net worth is around ₹12 crore to ₹18 crore, earned through films, production ventures, and endorsements.
He reportedly earned substantial remuneration for his directorial and acting roles, especially after Kantara’s massive success.
Personal Life & Family
Rishab Shetty is married to Pragathi Shetty (since 2017), and the couple has two children — a son named Ranvit (born 2019) and a daughter named Raadya (born 2022).
Despite his rising fame, Shetty chose to relocate his family to his native village Kundapura to provide them with a grounded upbringing, reflecting his humble values and cultural grounding.
Social Impact & Legacy
Rishab Shetty is admired not only for his films but also for:
Promoting Kannada culture nationally
Mentoring regional talent
Adopting local institutions and supporting education initiatives
His story of rising from odd jobs to filmmaking success continues to inspire many aspiring artists.
Conclusion
Rishab Shetty’s journey from a small town in Karnataka to becoming a nationally recognized actor-director is a testament to talent, perseverance, and love for storytelling. With blockbusters like Kantara and acclaimed films like Kirik Party and Sarkari Hi. Pra. Shaale…, he has carved a unique place in Indian cinema.
Whether through his movies, his distinct narrative voice, or his cultural impact, Rishab Shetty remains one of the most influential filmmakers in contemporary Indian cinema — bridging regional depth with global appeal.
Largest Dam in India – Height, Length, Storage & Power Explained
Ooty Height From Sea Level: Elevation, Climate, Terrain & Travel Guide