Tamil actor Rishikanth has expressed gratitude to audiences after receiving widespread appreciation for his performances in Dorothy and Modha Rathiri, describing the response as a deeply meaningful moment after 15 years in the film industry.
The actor took to social media on Saturday to thank viewers who have supported him through years of auditions, waiting, disappointments and uncertainty.
For Rishikanth, the reaction to his recent films represents more than appreciation for two performances. He said the affection has made his long journey feel worthwhile.
Rishikanth Reflects on 15 Years in Cinema
Sharing an emotional note with his followers, Rishikanth acknowledged the people who had remained supportive throughout his career.
“To each and every kind soul out there who made me feel that my 15-year journey was worth it, to each and every one who has stood by me, my heartfelt thanks from the bottom of my heart.”
The actor reflected on the difficult stretches of his career, describing a journey filled with uncertainty and moments when he questioned how long it would take for his work to receive recognition.
“There have been years of waiting, countless struggles, disappointments, lessons, and moments when I questioned how long and where this journey would take me.”
The response to his latest projects, he said, has made those experiences feel meaningful in retrospect.
“I Have Seen It. I Have Felt It”
Rishikanth also addressed the messages he has received from viewers following the releases of Dorothy and Modha Rathiri.
He said fans had reached out through messages, comments, edits, wishes and phone calls, although he has not been able to personally respond to everyone.
“Please know that it is not because I haven’t seen or felt your love. I have seen it. I have felt it.”
The actor said he intends to gradually respond to those who have reached out.
“From now on, I will slowly start replying to each and every one of you. It may take some time, but I will definitely reply each one of you, because I genuinely want to connect with you all who have given me so much love.”
For an actor reflecting on a long period of struggle, the emphasis on connecting directly with audiences adds a personal dimension to his message.
Appreciation Has Brought a New Sense of Responsibility
Rather than viewing the recent attention simply as a career milestone, Rishikanth said it has made him more conscious of the responsibility that comes with audience expectations.
“When you begin to place your love, trust, and expectations on me, it becomes my responsibility to respect that love. I want to carry that responsibility with humility.”
He promised to approach future projects with greater commitment, while continuing to learn through his work.
The actor also said he wanted to remain grounded despite the increased attention.
“My Journey Begins Here”
Rishikanth described the current phase of his career as a new beginning rather than the culmination of his struggle.
“My journey begins here. In many ways, I feel like this is where the real responsibility begins.”
He added:
“I promise I will work harder. I promise I will stay grounded. I promise I will keep learning.”
The actor thanked audiences for accepting him and making him feel like part of their family.
He concluded his note by writing:
“Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for accepting me. Thank you for standing beside me. Let Us Grow & win together! With all my love and gratitude, Your RK (Rishikanth).”
Rishikanth’s Recent Films
Rishikanth’s recent recognition comes after appearances in two contrasting Tamil films.
He was most recently seen in Karthik Subbaraj’s Dorothy, which released in theatres on September 25. The Tamil crime drama stars Keerthy Suresh, Sananth and Rishikanth, with the actor playing Karthi.
The film explores themes including toxic masculinity and gender identity, giving Rishikanth an opportunity to take on a role within a socially layered narrative.
Modha Rathiri Brings Another Side of Rishikanth
Rishikanth also stars in Raja Karuppasamy’s Modha Rathiri alongside Anishma Anilkumar.
The comedy-drama revolves around a troubled arranged marriage and takes a different tonal approach from Dorothy.
After its theatrical release in August, Modha Rathiri later premiered on Netflix, allowing the film to reach a wider streaming audience.
The contrasting nature of the two projects has helped place Rishikanth’s recent work before audiences in different settings, contributing to the appreciation he has received.
A New Chapter After a Long Wait
Rishikanth’s message is ultimately less about a sudden breakthrough and more about what recognition means after years of uncertainty.
After 15 years in the industry, the actor appears to view the current response as the beginning of a new phase—one in which audience affection comes with an obligation to keep improving.
His promise to remain grounded and continue learning reflects the tone of his message: the recent appreciation may feel like a reward for the journey so far, but for Rishikanth, it also marks the point where he believes the bigger responsibility begins.
