Shivanna: Working with youngsters keeps me young

February 19 marked 35 years since Shivarajkumar started out in the film industry. “I first faced the arc lights in 1986, and we are now in 2021. Looking back at these 35 years, I don’t know how the years have passed! Just like we celebrate our birthday, as an actor too, we turn a year older,” says the Century Star. 

He credits his 'appaji' (Dr Rajkumar), amma (Parvathamma Rajkumar), Chi Udayashankar, directors, co-artistes, producers, and above all, his fans for his longevity and thanks them for being his strength. “That’s what keeps me energetic, and this love from them might help me remain in the industry for another 50 years,” says Shivanna, adding, “Whatever stardom we enjoy is because of our fans.”

The 123-film-old hero says that he always chooses to remain positive about every film despite facing ups and downs. “If I learn the secret of success, I will become God. But I want to remain a human,” adds Shivanna, who wants to stay updated about the kind of cinema being made today. “During this journey, I have seen a lot of changes in filmmaking over the years. The industry has grown and we are getting updated. There are a lot of newcomers who are coming forward to work with me and they are making good films. Working with these youngsters keeps me young, and makes it easy for me to get upgraded to today’s cinema,” he explains.

The actor reveals that his 125th film will be made under his home banner and details about the project will be announced on March 11, on the occasion of Shivaratri.