Mangaluru: St Aloysius Pre-University College, Mangaluru, has added another feather to its cap as its student, Athish S. Shetty, has won the Best Child Artist award at the 72nd National Film Awards. The award, announced by the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, recognises his outstanding performance in the critically acclaimed Kannada feature film Mithya.
Directed by Sumanth Bhat and produced by Rakshit Shetty’s Paramvah Studios, Mithya also won the Best Kannada Feature Film award, while RoopashreeVarkady received the Best Supporting Actress award, making it one of the most celebrated films at this year’s National Film Awards.
Reflecting on his journey, Athish said that acting was not his initial ambition. His interest in cinema began with watching local productions, and he admired Tulu actor Arjun Kapikad and South Indian superstar Thalapathy Vijay. What began as a casual interest soon evolved into a remarkable acting career. At just 15 years of age, Athish has already acted in 21 Kannada and Tulu films and earlier received the Karnataka State Award for Best Child Actor for his performance in Cake.
Athish’s role in Mithya demanded extensive preparation. After appearing in the web series Ekam, he was recommended for the film’s workshops. Following three rigorous rounds of auditions, director Sumanth Bhat selected him for the lead role. He then underwent a month-long intensive workshop that helped him portray the emotionally challenging character with authenticity and maturity.
Speaking about the experience, Athish expressed gratitude to director Sumanth Bhat for his patient guidance and acknowledged the encouragement he received from senior actors Prakash Thuminadu and RoopashreeVarkady. He also cherished sharing the screen with his younger brother, Avish S. Shetty, who played his on-screen sibling. Recalling memorable moments from the shoot, Athish smiled as he recounted how his playful habit of cycling away after filming often left the crew searching for him along the coastal locations.
The son of Satish Shetty, an employee of MRPL, and Bharathi Shetty, a lecturer, Athish excels not only in acting but also in sports. A five-time national-level kickboxing medallist, he actively trains in boxing while balancing his artistic pursuits with academics. He credited his achievements to the constant encouragement of his parents, teachers, and classmates.
Looking ahead, Athish aspires to build a successful career in cinema while remaining committed to his academic goals. Alongside his achievements in acting, he is diligently preparing for the medical entrance examination through intensive coaching, reflecting his determination to excel in both the arts and academics. Grateful for the encouragement he has received, Athish credits his success to the unwavering support of his family, especially his mother, whose constant guidance, sacrifices, and belief in his potential have been the cornerstone of his remarkable journey.
Congratulating Athish on this remarkable accomplishment, the management, Principal, faculty, and students of St Aloysius Pre-University College described the honour as a moment of immense pride for the institution. They wished him continued success in both his academic and artistic endeavours and expressed confidence that he would achieve even greater milestones in the years ahead.