Last Updated:October 18, 2025, 07:49 IST

Rishab Shetty’s father, who is also an astrologer, suggested that the actor change his name for better work opportunities.

Kantara Chapter 1 is written and directed by Rishabh Shetty. (Photo Credits: Instagram)

Rishab Shetty, the powerhouse actor-director who took Indian cinema by storm with Kantara and Kantara Chapter 1, recently opened up about a deeply personal and lesser-known chapter of his life, his name change. He revealed that his real name is Prashant, and he changed it because of his astrologer father’s suggestion.

In a candid conversation on The Right Angle Season 2, Rishab shared that his father, who is an astrologer, had a defining influence on his screen identity. “My real name is Prashant. My father suggested I change it to Rishab for better prospects in work,” he revealed. Interestingly, both names, Prashant and Rishab, were chosen by his father himself.

The revelation adds a heartfelt dimension to Rishab’s already inspiring journey, from a small-town boy in coastal Karnataka to one of India’s most respected filmmakers. With Kantara, Rishab didn’t just deliver a box-office blockbuster; he crafted a spiritual and cultural movement that resonated across languages and generations.

Following the massive success of Kantara Chapter 1, Rishab Shetty recently visited the heritage city of Mysuru to seek the blessings of Goddess Chamundeshwari and Shrikanteshwara Temple. Known for his humility and spiritual inclination, Rishab took time from his busy schedule to pay respects at these iconic temples, reflecting his deep connection to culture, tradition, and his roots.

Rishab Shetty’s journey to Mysuru comes on the heels of Kantara Chapter 1’s extraordinary box office run, which has touched close to 700 crore worldwide, solidifying the film as one of the most talked-about cinematic experiences of the year. Shetty is also scheduled to visit Varanasi and Kashi Vishwanath later on Friday to seek blessings amid the success of his movie.

About Kantara Chapter 1

Kantara: Chapter 1 is set in the 4th Century AD, unravelling the sacred origins of the mystical land of Kantara. This chapter dives deep into its rich mythology, age-old conflicts, and divine interventions, weaving a saga of folklore, faith, and fire, born from the very soil of the land. The film features Rishab Shetty, Sapthami Gowda, Gulshan Devaiah, Rukmini Vasanth, Jayaram, PD Satish Chandra, Prakash Thuminad, and an ensemble of talented actors, bringing this epic tale vividly to life.

Kantara: Chapter 1 is written, directed, and headlined by Rishab Shetty; the film is produced by Vijay Kiragandur under the prestigious banner of Hombale Films. The film features cinematography by Arvind S. Kashyap and music by B. Ajaneesh Loknath, both of whom were instrumental in creating the magical world of the original. Kantara: Chapter 1 released worldwide on October 2, 2025.

Kashvi Raj Singh

Kashvi Raj Singh is a Sub Editor at News18. She extensively covers Bollywood, Hollywood and television. She not only keeps an eye out for interesting news angles but also often writes social commentary in long-…Read More

Kashvi Raj Singh is a Sub Editor at News18. She extensively covers Bollywood, Hollywood and television. She not only keeps an eye out for interesting news angles but also often writes social commentary in long-… Read More