`Adipurush`, one of the most anticipated Indian films of 2023, whose first teaser was released here on Sunday, unites the talents of Prabhas (of the `Baahubali` franchise) and Om Raut, who directed the Ajay Devgn-starrer `Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior`, the biggest Indian box office hit of 2020, reports `Variety`. `Adipurush` is Raut`s take on the `Ramayana` by Valmiki. The film is set 7,000 years ago and in the film, Prabhas`s character is not called Lord Ram, he is Raghav, which is another name for Ram.
Also Read: Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal to host wedding reception on Oct 4 in Mumbai
Sita, played by Kriti Sanon, is called Janaki (as in King Janaka`s daughter), while Saif Ali Khan`s Ravana is Lankesh (lord of Lanka), which are also derivatives of their `Ramayana` names, notes `Variety`. Adipurush literally means `first man`, but here the interpretation is that of `best man`. Post `Tanhaji`, Raut could have called any Indian A-lister for his next film but he chose Prabhas. “I always had Prabhas in my mind when I was writing Raghav`s character — it became so compelling for me,” Raut said in a conversation with `Variety`. “If it was not him, I would have not made the film.” Raut made it to Hyderabad from Mumbai in the middle of India`s first Covid-19 lockdown to discuss the film with Prabhas in person. The actor describes the meeting as a “super exciting day”.
“After three days, I got a little stressed because I thought it`s the most precious film for the country — can I do it?” Prabhas told `Variety`. “Om said not to worry and so it was a beautiful thing that happened. I think it`s the most prestigious film in my life.” Prabhas says he signed on because of Raut`s intriguing screenplay and how it integrates the history and culture of India. “The way he designed the film was amazing, huge. And I think he made it very well,” Prabhas said.
Also Read: Revealed! Katrina Kaif to play a ghost in `Phone Bhoot`
This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever