Romance on big screen is timeless, and Ganesh, the enduring romantic hero of the Kannada film industry, exemplifies its evergreen appeal. Popular as the Golden Star, Ganesh admits that his connection to romance on screen keeps him feeling youthful. Interestingly, even a director like Srinivas Raju, who previously helmed crime films like , finds himself drawn to casting Ganesh in a romantic film, “I love being known as a romantic hero, and I see no need to change that image.

If an interesting role comes along, I’m open to it, but even crime stories should look beautiful,” he chuckles. “However my audience loves seeing me as the family hero, the boy-next-door, or even like a son. Their satisfaction is my priority—they should always feel comfortable watching my films with their families, and I aim to meet their expectations,” Ganesh explains with a smile, ahead of the film’s release on August 15.

While the current trend has shifted away from romantic films, it’s not about losing interest, says Ganesh. “Today’s audiences crave larger-than-life experiences, whether it be romance, family drama, or crime thrillers. It’s not just about small budgets anymore; everything counts—big budgets, star power, production value, and marketing.

Genres change every six to eight years, and right now, people want colourful, vibrant films,” Ganesh explains. “OTT platforms might lean towards crime, but the audience’s mood remains clear—they enjoy a good story without c.