“The actors’ careers and their salaries encouraged me to move to the big screen”

Kannada rapper Chandan Shetty, known for hits like ‘3 Peg’, ‘Tequila’, ‘Fire’ and ‘Party Freak’, is entering a new phase with his acting debut in Vidyarthi Vidyarthiniyare, directed by Arun Amuktha. Ahead of the film’s release on July 19, Chandan Shetty, who is exploring this new sphere, reflects on his music career: “Although I was associated with various music directors as a background singer, I realised that I had to put myself out there to be recognised. So, I took the leap to be the face behind the music, which led me to ‘Halagode’. It was a time of challenges, risks and equal enthusiasm.”

Chandan, who started out as a Bigg Boss contestant, is now a popular music director turned actor. He reveals that his journey through various art forms helped him earn a living and make an income. “Coming from a middle-class family, fame was not my main goal; I was doing this for a living. Fortunately, I had the unwavering support of my parents; their faith in my talent was invaluable.”

My father, a keen follower of astrology, was confident that I would make it, but it took me a few years. When I composed Halagode, I was not sure if I could continue living in Bengaluru. I was ready to leave the city, but thankfully, I had a spark and from then on, there was no looking back,” he says, attributing his journey to destiny and many miracles.

Chandan Shetty says Big Boss brought him both fame and criticism. “Success attracts detractors in any field. Criticism is a part of being a public figure and I have learnt to deal with it with maturity. These experiences have strengthened me and motivated me to pursue acting,” he says. His decision to take up acting was pragmatic as he believed that without a ‘godfather’, the only other way to stay afloat in the film industry was to generate income, and acting has proven to be a profitable business.

“Actors today are among the highest paid in the Kannada film industry. As a music director, I felt I was not getting paid properly. Studying the careers of actors and their remunerations inspired me to take to the silver screen,” says Chandan, adding, “While Vidyarthi Vidyarthiniyare is my debut, I have already completed two other projects: Suraj Shastry’s Elra Kaaleliyatte Kaala and Kiran’s Suthradaari.”

A self-taught musician, Chandan Shetty credits YouTube for his learning curve. “As an actor, I have learnt a lot from my actor friends, taking inspiration from Puneeth Rajkumar and Aamir Khan on how to handle celebrity life. After shooting for three projects, I realised that it is not easy to step out of my comfort zone,” he says, acknowledging mixed emotions as he prepares to see himself on screen. “As a rapper, I have connected with specific audiences through music. Now, as I step onto the silver screen, I wonder how the audience will react to me.”

In Vidyarthi Vidyarthiniayare, Chandan Shetty plays three distinct characters, each presenting a unique challenge. “Seeing myself in the mirror with each new avatar reminded me of my rapping days. Embracing these different roles was an enriching challenge,” he shares, hoping the audience will enjoy it.

Chandan Shetty, who is now focusing on acting, has recorded only a few songs in recent times. “I want to avoid confusing my audience. As a rapper, the financial constraints were high. Fortunately, when it comes to acting, the producers have trusted me and I aim to maintain that trust,” he admits, expressing gratitude to producers Subramanya Kukke and AC Shivalingegowda for releasing the film in these difficult times. Vidyarthi Vidyarthiniyare, a college-themed drama, revolves around high-achieving students who seek to inspire youngsters who take parental support for granted. “My character wants to change their lives,” says Chandan Shetty.

Speaking on the recent news of his divorce from Niveditha Gowda, he admits that he is open to an on-screen duo if it serves the film. “I have already shot for a film in which she plays the lead and I play her boyfriend. We have a few days left of the shoot and we are waiting for the shoot to be completed,” he concludes warmly.