Rishab Shetty:
When people talk about the biggest stars and upcoming lineups in Indian cinema, the conversation usually revolves around names like Prabhas, Ranbir Kapoor, and Jr NTR. Their future projects dominate social media discussions, fan debates, and industry predictions.
But while all that noise is happening, Rishab Shetty seems to be moving in a completely different way — quietly, steadily, and very strategically.
After the massive success of Kantara, Rishab has become one of the most interesting names in Indian cinema. Instead of announcing multiple films every few months, he’s focusing on a few huge projects that could significantly expand his reach across the country.
The first big milestone on his slate is Jai Hanuman, which is expected to arrive in 2027. The project has already generated curiosity because of its scale and mythological backdrop. Fans are eager to see what Rishab brings to such a larger-than-life story.
And now comes the bigger surprise.
Reports indicate that a grand two-part epic based on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj has been locked for release in 2028 and 2029. With a reported budget crossing ₹500 crore, the project is being positioned as one of the most ambitious historical films ever attempted in Indian cinema.
That kind of scale immediately puts Rishab in a different conversation.
He’s no longer just the filmmaker who delivered a surprise blockbuster. He’s gradually stepping into the league where stars are trusted with massive budgets, pan-India storytelling, and long-term franchise-level projects.
What’s interesting is that this rise isn’t happening with constant hype or daily headlines. It’s happening quietly. One project at a time. And that’s probably why many people haven’t fully noticed what’s being built.
If everything goes as planned, the next few years could be huge for Rishab Shetty. While the spotlight remains fixed on some of the industry’s biggest names, he’s steadily creating a lineup that can stand right beside them.
And at this point, it’s becoming harder to call him an underdog. He’s officially playing in the big leagues now.

