2 weeks Ago By A Sharadhaa
Rashika Shetty, whose career started as a child artist, is now making her feature debut with director Yogaraj Bhat’s Manada Kadalu. Reflecting on her early days, she recalls her first-ever screen appearance in the song 'Kande Kande Govindana' from , where she shared the screen with celebrated actor Ramya. “That was a defining moment for me,” says Rashika.
“When I saw Ramya and had the chance to be part of a song with her, I instantly felt the acting bug bit me. Since then, I’ve looked up to her as an inspiration for my acting career.” Hailing from Chikmagalur and now settling in Mysuru, Rashika's film work has brought her to Bengaluru.
While she had always dreamt of being on the big screen, her journey also included roles in Telugu and Kannada serials. “I’ve always wanted to see myself on the big screen, and though I started with TV serials, it was a stepping stone to where I am now,” she adds. Her debut film, , gives her that first big break, as she stars alongside Sumukh and Anjali Anish.
She speaks with excitement about the project: “I have always admired Yogaraj's films, from Mungaru Male to Gaalipata and Mugulu Nage. To have the opportunity to be a part of his film feels surreal,” shares Rashika. This opportunity was facilitated by cinematographer Santhosh Rai Pathaje.
“Santhosh sir clicked a few photos of me, which somehow ended up on Yogaraj Bhat's table. And like every newcomer, I was on cloud nine when I got a callback from his team. It felt like my dream was finally coming true,” she says.
In , Rashika plays a cricketer - a character that required her to undergo serious physical training. “I had to practice cricket and even learn swimming for the role. It was a wonderful challenge,” she explains.
The shooting process, which spanned across various seasons - from rainy days to scorching summer heat and chilly winter - was equally intense. “The experience was unforgettable. We worked through all weather conditions, and the process was made even more special as we could recall the director’s previous successful films,” she shares.
Apart from , Rashika is also wrapping up another project, produced by Nagashree and directed by debutant Suprith, who previously worked as an assistant to director Prem. “I still have a few scenes and a couple of songs left to shoot for that film,” she says, adding that she is also in the process of selecting her next big project. “Every step, every role, has brought me closer to where I am today,” she says.
“I’m waiting for Manada Kadalu’s release, as it could open up more opportunities for me. Once it’s out, I’ll be looking to make my next move,” she concludes..
