Actor and director Rishab Shetty, who created a nationwide sensation with Kantara, recently opened up about an intriguing secret behind his meteoric rise. Currently promoting his directorial venture Kantara: Chapter 1, which released on October 2 and has become a major box-office success, Rishab revealed in interviews that his real name is not Rishab Shetty, but Prashanth—a name he changed to pave his way in the film industry.
Explaining the change, Rishab said his father, an astrology expert, advised him to adopt the name “Rishab” after examining his horoscope. “My father told me that taking the name Rishab would bring me luck. I followed his advice, and indeed, after changing my name, my life began to transform,” he said. Rishab also acknowledged that, like any newcomer, he faced numerous challenges in the early stages of his career, but the name change marked a turning point in his professional journey.
Rishab Shetty’s self-directed Kantara: Chapter 1, featuring Rukmini Vasanth, has taken the Indian box office by storm, grossing over ₹700 crore within just two weeks. The film has captivated audiences not only in Kannada but also in Telugu, Hindi, and other languages, garnering widespread acclaim for its storytelling, performances, and technical finesse.
Reflecting on his nationwide recognition, Rishab credited his father’s guidance and the strategic name change as key factors behind his success. He emphasized that while talent and hard work are essential, certain pivotal decisions—like the advice he received from his father—can play a decisive role in shaping a career in the competitive film industry.
