Bengaluru: Kannada actor-filmmaker Raj B Shetty has said the controversy surrounding the release of Karavali has made him rethink accepting guest appearances in films. Reflecting on the events that unfolded around the movie, Shetty said he would now have to “think a hundred times” before agreeing to take up cameo or extended guest roles in future projects. The remarks come after Karavali became the centre of a public dispute involving lead actor Prajwal Devaraj, the film’s makers and fan groups.
Despite playing only an extended guest role in the film, Raj B Shetty found himself drawn into the controversy that overshadowed the movie’s promotional campaign ahead of its release.
Raj B Shetty reflects on the controversy
Speaking after the film’s release, Raj B Shetty said the experience had left a lasting impact on him and changed the way he would approach similar roles in the future.
He remarked that the controversy had taught him an important lesson, adding that he would now carefully evaluate every invitation to play a guest or cameo role before accepting it.
According to Shetty, controversies surrounding films often end up affecting people who are not directly involved in the dispute, making such decisions more complicated for actors.
Extended cameo became part of the debate
Raj B Shetty joined Karavali in what the makers described as an extended guest appearance. However, following the trailer launch, speculation emerged that his prominence in the promotional material had contributed to tensions surrounding the project.
The controversy centred on allegations by lead actor Prajwal Devaraj regarding pending remuneration, dubbing issues and communication with the production team. The makers denied deliberately sidelining the actor and maintained that efforts had been made to resolve the issues before the trailer launch.
Although Raj B Shetty was not directly involved in the disagreement, his role in the film became part of the public discussion.
‘The film is bigger than any individual’
During the controversy, Raj B Shetty repeatedly stressed that no individual was bigger than cinema.
He clarified that he had never demanded greater prominence in the film’s publicity and said he had no issue even if his name did not appear on posters. He also urged both the makers and Prajwal Devaraj to resolve their differences amicably.
The actor further criticised fan-driven rivalries and personality clashes, saying such issues often prevent the Kannada film industry from growing collectively.
Karavali’s release
Directed by Gurudatha Ganiga, Karavali stars Prajwal Devaraj in the lead, with Raj B Shetty appearing in a pivotal extended cameo. Set against the backdrop of coastal Karnataka and the traditional sport of Kambala, the film explores themes of rivalry, revenge and family legacy.
The film generated significant attention before its release, not only for its story but also because of the disputes surrounding its promotions. While the controversy dominated headlines, the cast and crew continued to urge audiences to focus on the film itself.
Looking ahead
Raj B Shetty’s comments suggest that the Karavali episode has influenced his future career decisions. While he remains open to meaningful characters, he indicated that he would be far more cautious before accepting guest appearances in upcoming projects.
Known for choosing content-driven films and prioritising storytelling over screen time, the actor said his focus would continue to remain on projects where the creative vision is clear and the working environment is positive.