The Kannada film industry will thrive only with quality content, says Niranjan Shetty

Actor Niranjan Shetty, best known for Jolly Days and Case No. 18/9, believes the Kannada film industry can only grow stronger by consistently delivering quality content — a shift he’s glad to see taking shape. “There’s a greater focus on writing now,” he says. “We’re slowly moving away from films that cater purely to mass appeal, which is a positive sign for the future. This creates opportunities for young actors to experiment with native stories and fresh storytelling styles.” ‘SURVIVING WITHOUT A GODFATHER IS MY BIGGEST ACHIEVEMENT’Niranjan returns to the big screen with 31 Days, an intense love story he feels will resonate deeply with today’s youth. He has also turned producer with the project, backing the kind of stories he’s passionate about bringing to life. “Despite the highs and lows, I’m content with where I am,” he says. “With no background or godfather in the industry, I’ve managed to act in eight films and remain relevant in this fiercely competitive space. That, to me, is my biggest achievement."