Rishab Shetty won the Best Actor award at the National Awards in 2024 for his performance in ‘Kantara’. Written and directed by Shetty, the film became a pan-India hit in 2022. The actor has reacted to his National Award win and expressed his gratitude to everyone who was a part of the film.

Rishab Shetty said in a statement, “I am very happy to receive the National Award for ‘Kantara’. I express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been a part of this journey, the artistes, technicians and especially the incredible team at Hombale Films. The audiences have made this film what it is and their support fills me with a deep sense of responsibility.”

He further added, “I am committed to work even harder to bring an even better film to our audiences. With utmost respect, I dedicate this award to our Kannada audiences, the Daiva dancers and Appu Sir. I thank God as we have reached this moment with the blessings of the Daivas.”

Kantara, is an action thriller that revolves around Bhoota Kola, a traditional dance for the deity. The film’s cast featured Kishore, Achyuth Kumar, Sapthami Gowda and Pramod Shetty in lead roles. It was produced by Vijay Kiragandur under Hombale Films, the banner behind the KGF franchise. Currently, ‘Kantara 2’ is in the works.