Raj B Shetty Dismisses 'Shetty Mafia' Label, Champions Creative Collaboration in Cinema

Actor-filmmaker addresses industry perception while promoting his hit film 'Su from So'

Kannada cinema's rising star Raj B Shetty has firmly pushed back against the "Shetty mafia" label that media and audiences often attach to him alongside fellow actors Rishab Shetty and Rakshit Shetty. Speaking candidly during promotional interviews for his successful film "Su from So," Raj offered a refreshing perspective on collaboration versus competition in the entertainment industry.

"In Karnataka, sometimes people call us the 'Shetty mafia' or the 'Shetty gang'," Raj acknowledged in his recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter India. His response was characteristically straightforward: "All I have to tell them is please, form your own gang, brother."

The actor-filmmaker's comments highlight a deeper philosophy about creative partnerships in cinema. Rather than viewing successful collaborations as exclusionary, Raj emphasized that the film industry thrives on collective effort and mutual support.

"If you are roaming around all alone and want all the name and glory for yourself, and are not ready to collaborate, then that's not our problem, brother," he stated, underscoring his belief that individual success in cinema often stems from teamwork rather than isolated efforts.

This perspective comes at a time when "Su from So," directed by JP Thuminad and produced by Raj, has emerged as a runaway hit in Karnataka. The comedy film has not only performed exceptionally well in its home state but has also begun its theatrical journey in Kerala, with a Telugu-dubbed version set to release on August 8.

Raj's approach to filmmaking reflects his commitment to authentic, culturally rooted storytelling. His directorial ventures, including "Ondu Motteya Kathe," "Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana," and "Swathi Mutthina Male Haniye," have consistently featured narratives deeply connected to local culture and experiences.

Despite his success, Raj maintains a clear stance on working with established stars. As a filmmaker, he prefers directing projects where star personas don't complicate the creative process. However, he makes one notable exception: Kannada cinema's Century Star Shivarajkumar, whom he recently worked with in the upcoming film "45."

"I don't consider him a star; I think he is a man who is much more bigger than a star," Raj explained, praising Shivarajkumar's down-to-earth approach despite his legendary status in Kannada cinema.

The upcoming film "45," directed by music composer Arjun Janya, features Raj alongside Shivarajkumar and Upendra in a story rooted in Sanatana Dharma concepts. Originally scheduled for Independence Day weekend, the film's release has been postponed due to VFX completion delays, with a new date to be announced soon.

Raj's comments about collaboration extend beyond mere professional partnerships. They reflect a broader vision for regional cinema where creative communities support each other's growth rather than viewing success as a zero-sum game. This philosophy has clearly served him well, as his multifaceted career as director, actor, writer, and producer continues to flourish.

As "Su from So" expands its reach across South Indian markets, Raj B Shetty's message remains clear: success in cinema comes not from working in isolation but from building creative partnerships that elevate everyone involved. His dismissal of the "mafia" label isn't just about semantics it's about fostering a more collaborative and inclusive approach to filmmaking that benefits the entire industry.