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Actor Diganth Manchale ’s recent comment, made on the sidelines of the launch of the film, Rudrakaala , about living off rental income rather than film earnings sparked a bit of chatter online. Diganth, however, brushes it off with a laugh. “Financially, I’m very secure and don’t have to worry about my livelihood. I have properties back home in Thirthahalli and steady rental income from my properties in Bengaluru. I don’t rely on films to sustain my life,” he says.

‘Today’s industry scenario has taken away the luxury to pick and choose projects’

“Earlier, I had the privilege of being selective with scripts. That’s not the case anymore. Since last year, offers have reduced, and now, it’s more about picking the best from what’s available. I’m sure many of my colleagues, too, are in the same situation,” he says candidly.

‘Stardom is much harder to achieve today’

“When I started out, it was a very different ecosystem — films, single screens, and organic fan followings. Today, with social media and multiple entertainment platforms, everyone is competing for attention. It’s much harder to build and sustain that connection with audiences. I feel I entered at the right time and was able to establish myself. But I genuinely feel for newer actors, even those in my cricket circle, who are incredibly talented but are struggling to get their due,” he shares.

‘Filmmakers are hesitant without a safety net’

“Earlier, there was always some form of minimum guarantee — be it TV rights, audio rights, or dubbing rights — which gave filmmakers confidence. With OTT changing the landscape, that safety net has largely disappeared. Yes, cinema is driven by passion, but sustainability matters, too. I had signed two films that were supposed to begin, but both got shelved because the producers got cold feet considering the current industry climate. I’m just grateful to be working and fortunate that I don’t depend solely on films for my income,” he says.