Rishab Shetty spoke on the topic of Indian cinema during a United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. The Kananda hit film Kantara will also be screened.
Rishab Shetty’s speech
Kannada actor Rishab Shetty is currently in Geneva as his film Kantara was shown at the Pathe Balexert, on March 17 at the United Nations. The star was given an opportunity to speak about Indian cinema, and how it promotes talks about climate, ecology, and natural causes during a session at the UNHRC (United Nations Human Rights Council). This comes after Kantara’s critical acclaim over its climate-conscious themes.
Proud to represent ECO FAWN in submitting Oral Statement at UNHRC. The significance in promotion of cultural rights of forest dwellers and protection of forests in Kantara is deciphered at the international forum. pic.twitter.com/1sAz2dTbqg
— Rishab Shetty (@shetty_rishab) March 16, 2023
“Proud to represent ECO FAWN in submitting oral statement at UNHRC. The significance in the promotion of cultural rights of forest dwellers and protection of forests in Kantara is deciphered at the international forum,” Rishab said after the speech.
For technical reasons, Rishab Shetty’s speech was stopped after a few minutes. Sources close to him stated that as the translation was not available, the chance was given to another speaker.
Rishab Shetty sharing his speech note on his social media account read, “Environmental sustainability is the need of the hour. As an actor and director, my aim is to impact at the grassroots level.”
.@shetty_rishab will be talking about Indian Cinema's role in fostering discussions on environment, climate & conservation, at UNHRC Session in Geneva. CGAPP Director Anindya Sengupta met him on the sidelines of the Session as #Kantara star brings Indian stories to world stage. pic.twitter.com/39ugg0iv12
— Centre for Global Affairs & Public Policy (@CGAPPIndia) March 15, 2023
“The global agencies and the governmental organizations are at the forefront of the pursuit of environmental sustainability. In addition, civil society in India is also involved in local environmental protection. The medium of cinema holds a mirror to such environmental consciousness and plays an important role in showing reality to the world. We are proud that many Indian movies have talked about environment protection through fictional and real stories and created awareness about it,” the note adds.
The Man and Nature
“Even in my latest movie Kantara, there are important elements about human life in the lap of nature, local beliefs and rituals of people,” said Rishab and adds, “how our connection with the environment, its effect on us, co-existence, and cultural values are interdependent”.
The film talks about local environmental protection, the role of government, and the importance of neighborhoods in solving environmental problems.
“Movies like ‘Kantara’ expose reality and inspire people to face environmental challenges and solve problems. They awaken emotions and move people towards environmental protection. I appeal to everyone present that such hard work should be recognized and encouraged,” the actor said.
Rishab address the gathering in Kannada, following which he attended a private dinner with UN dignitaries. The filmmaker had recently announced a prequel to the film during an event celebrating 100 days of Kantara in theatres. The prequel is expected to release in 2024.
