Rishab Shetty Weaves Karnataka’s Heritage into IFFM 2026 Red Carpet with Striking Traditional Ensemble
Melbourne, Australia – Kannada cinematic sensation, Rishab Shetty, captivated onlookers at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2026 red carpet, choosing a strikingly simple yet profoundly cultural attire that eloquently spoke of his roots. The ‘Kantara’ star’s sartorial choice was a deliberate nod to tradition, eschewing elaborate embellishments for a powerful statement of heritage.
Shetty graced the international stage in a sophisticated black silk-cotton kurta, perfectly paired with a handwoven pure silk dhoti. The ivory dhoti, featuring a subtle zari border, introduced a touch of understated opulence to the ensemble, while the black kurta maintained a clean, classic aesthetic. This harmonious blend of colors and fabrics created a visually appealing balance, where the traditional dhoti exuded cultural gravitas, and the black kurta ensured a fitting presence on a global red carpet. The actor’s deliberate minimalism, focusing on the quality of the fabric, the interplay of colors, and the traditional design, underscored his commitment to cultural authenticity.
Adding an exceptionally meaningful detail, Shetty’s kurta bore an embroidered Gandaberunda on the left side of his chest. This mythical two-headed bird, deeply ingrained in Karnataka’s history and iconography, symbolizes strength, power, and resilience. Its presence served as a poignant reminder of Karnataka’s rich cultural tapestry, allowing Shetty to carry a piece of his home state onto an international platform.
On the professional front, Rishab Shetty continues to command attention following the immense success of his 2025 blockbuster, ‘Kantara: Chapter 1’. His upcoming ventures are equally ambitious, with the actor set to embody the legendary Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in ‘The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.’ This epic two-part project is currently in production, with the first installment anticipated for a 2028 release and the second chapter slated for 2029, although official announcements from the filmmakers are still awaited.
Beyond this historical saga, Shetty has also joined forces with Prashanth Varma, the acclaimed director behind ‘HanuMan,’ for its much-anticipated sequel, ‘Jai Hanuman.’ The film boasts a stellar cast, including Amritha Aiyer, Rana Daggubati, and Teja Sajja, promising another cinematic spectacle. Shetty’s discerning choice of roles and his unwavering commitment to his cultural identity continue to solidify his standing as a prominent figure in Indian cinema, both nationally and on the global stage.
