Arya is often compared with actor Dulquer Salmaan, and the actor admits to being aware of this. While he is flattered by the comparison, Arya hopes to achieve at least half of what the Malayalam actor has done in his career. 

“Yes, I have often been told that I look like Dulquer, but only looks are not enough. He is a successful actor, and I am still taking the first step,” he says.

Arya's first stint in filmdom was in the Sudeep-starrer No 73, Shanthi Nivasa, and he later made a guest appearance in Musanje Mathu, while his first lead role came in E Sanje.

The actor, who decided to take a break from films, is now back after a hiatus with Onti. “It’s been a long struggle, and that’s exactly how I define my journey,” he says. “After almost seven years I am back to do a film, and this time I am also doubling up as the producer,” adds the three-film-old actor who comes from a business background.

On producing his own film, Arya reveals, “Shri, the director, had come with a good script, but as newcomers, we found it hard to get producers to back the project. So, after much thought, I decided to invest my own money for the film.”

Onti, made under the banner of Sai Ram Creations, features Meghana Raj as the female lead. The cast also includes Devaraj, Girija Lokesh, Sharath Lohitshva, Ninasam Ashwath, and Pavan.

The team plans to come out with the film’s teaser and audio tomorrow. Onti has music by Manoj S, cinematography by K Shashidar, and stunts by Mass Maada.