When Jisho Lon Antony, a filmmaker from Malayalam cinema, began reaching out to artists for his survival thriller Rudhiram, he did not initially consider Kannada actor-director Raj B Shetty. Jisho aimed to cast an actor from the Malayalam film industry to oppose Aparna Balamurali in the project. However, upon discussing the role with his preferred candidates, he received feedback indicating that the characteristics of Mathew in Rudhiram would not align with their established public personas or the types of roles they had previously undertaken.

Jisho: I needed an artiste... not a star

Raj was not originally included in my plans. However, after receiving feedback from actors in Malayalam cinema, I realized the necessity of an artist who transcends conventional images and can embody any role. This led me to consider Raj; Mathew is a character that requires a true performer to bring it to life. I sought an artist rather than a star constrained by image limitations. While Raj is undoubtedly a star, he is, more importantly, an exceptional performer, states Jisho.

The filmmaker further explains that he first secured Aparna's involvement, and it was only after she approved the project that he felt confident in moving forward. The next challenge was to find an actor to complement her performance, ideally someone who could match or exceed her talent. Composer Midhun Mukundan, who was initially slated to handle the film's music, recommended Raj for the role. Although Midhun later had to withdraw due to his busy schedule, Raj remained interested, appreciating the narrative he received.

Rudhiram trailer: Raj B Shetty and Aparna Balamurali promise an intense survival-revenge thriller | Watch 

Rudhiram was to be Raj’s debut in Malayalam cinema, but delays in production and the subsequent release meant that it’s now his third in the industry. He debuted as the antagonist in Megastar Mammootty’s Turbo, which he followed up with a role in Kondal.

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