Rishab Shetty in TROUBLE for Saying 'Bollywood Shows India in Bad Light': 'Pinching Female Waist...'

Kannada actor and filmmaker Rishab Shetty, renowned for his 2022 hit Kantara, has stirred controversy with recent remarks about Bollywood’s portrayal of India. Shetty, who recently won the Best Actor National Film Award for his role in Kantara, has been promoting his upcoming Kannada film Laughing Buddha, starring Pramod Shetty. However, his critique of Bollywood has sparked significant backlash.

In a viral interview with MetroSaga, Shetty voiced his frustration with Bollywood’s depiction of India at international film festivals. Speaking in Kannada, he stated, “Indian films, especially Bollywood, show India in a bad light. These art films are invited to global events and given a red carpet. My nation, my state, my language—my pride. Why not take it on a positive note globally, and that’s what I try to do.”

Shetty’s comments have provoked a strong reaction from netizens. Critics have called out his perceived hypocrisy, referencing scenes from Kantara where his character pinches a woman’s waist without her consent. This has led to accusations of double standards.

One user commented, “Such a jealous soul. Kattar Bollywood hater. He begged Bollywood audience to support his overrated film filled with problematic content.” Another added, “Success is temporary, but pinching female waists and sh*tting on Bollywood is permanent.” Critics argue that Bollywood is the only Indian industry recognised internationally and has helped other Indian films gain global traction.

Further reactions pointed out that Shetty’s critique fails to consider the broader context of cinema and its impact. One critic noted, “As if not showing those realities on screen would change the living conditions of people in India. That’s what happens when you live in a posh apartment surrounded by elite class people and 20 servants holding an umbrella for you; you forget there is another world too.”

Despite the backlash, Shetty’s comments have sparked a wider conversation about how Indian cinema, including both Bollywood and regional films, represents the country on the global stage.