Raj B Shetty on Playing the Grey: “I Can’t Relate to Perfect Humans”

Actor-filmmaker Raj B Shetty has carved a distinct space in Kannada cinema by embracing characters rooted in flaws, contradictions, and emotional vulnerability. That philosophy continues with Rakkasapuradol, directed by Ravi Saranga, where Raj essays an unconventional and deeply human police officer. Ahead of the film’s theatrical release on February 6, Raj opened up about his creative choices, his belief in script-first cinema, and why backing new voices remains important to him.

Raj admits that working with debutant directors involves risk, but he sees it as necessary for the growth of Kannada cinema. “We need new filmmakers. Ravi Saranga has the ability to bring change. I trusted him and the script, and the experience has been rewarding,” he says, adding that the industry needs a balance of big-budget spectacles and mid-budget, content-driven films.

Describing Rakkasapuradol as a tightly written, script-driven thriller, Raj explains that what drew him in was the character’s imperfection. “I play a cop who is flawed and very human. He is not the ideal police officer. Perfection exists only in cinema. Real people live in grey zones, constantly battling to be better. I can’t relate to perfect human beings,” he shares.

The actor also reflects on the challenge of portraying inner conflict with restraint. “My character has an entire world within him, but he doesn’t express much. Making that stillness convincing — showing that he is investigating without overt action — was difficult, but I enjoy such challenges,” Raj says.

Beyond performance, Raj values the collaborative energy the film offered. Working with Ravi Saranga and co-actors Gowrav Shetty, Siddanna, Swathishta, and Archana Kottige gave him fresh perspectives. “Cinema, for me, is about collaboration — meeting new people, learning, and constantly evolving,” he adds.