With a bilingual Kannada-Marathi project in the works, along with an upcoming direct OTT release and a planned theatrical release, actress Manvita Kamath finds herself busy exploring various mediums in the world of cinema. Speaking with Bangalore Times, she discusses her experiences in the Kannada film industry, the support she receives from her husband, Arun Pai, and his family following their recent wedding. Here are some excerpts:
"I enjoy the excitement of appearing on the big screen, but the reach of OTT platforms to a new audience is also appealing. I believe I am suited for different mediums as an actor. While nothing compares to the thrill of watching a film in a theater, OTT platforms offer unique opportunities. I have been fortunate to work on projects that had '125 days' boards at cinemas, although those days are now overshadowed by the rise of OTT platforms. Personally, I am a fan of OTT content and appreciate the inclusivity it brings by reaching a diverse audience beyond geographical boundaries.
In the coming months, I am eagerly anticipating the releases of my bilingual film 'Chakhamakhi', as well as my Kannada film 'One and Half', alongside another project that will debut directly on an OTT platform. Social media has reshaped how people perceive us, prompting me to consider enhancing my online presence to keep up with the evolving landscape.
Unfortunately, social media often portrays a skewed reality, making it challenging to discern fact from fiction. As someone who values privacy, I have at times turned down interview requests during my career, hesitant to share too much. However, I recognize the importance of engaging with social media to connect with audiences and shape my public image."I used to struggle during interviews as I felt I didn't have enough to share like news. Nowadays, with the influence of social media, I contemplate if I should enhance my presence there to shape how people perceive me. It's disheartening that what is visible online often defines one's credibility, overshadowing the hard work, dedication, and respect for one's craft that goes unnoticed behind the screens. Maintaining a positive mindset, I am grateful for my supportive mentors and dear friends. The encouragement from my husband Arun and his family is a source of strength for me. Despite my mother's initial reservations about the film industry, my husband and in-laws appreciate and celebrate my accomplishments. Reflecting on my journey, I realize I was naive for a significant part of my career. As I grow personally and professionally, I have learned to set boundaries and not allow anyone to undermine my confidence. I have distanced myself from individuals who aim to diminish my self-worth. My focus is on doing meaningful work, and I am determined not to let negativity dampen my enthusiasm.
