High & mighty

Mona

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They have been together for so long that they have almost forgotten how to live individually! Four birthdays on the set; together they have grown as actors, as filmmakers and as human beings. They may play adversaries in the most-awaited film of the year, but as Prabhas and Rana Daggubati sit together in Chandigarh on Friday, they complete each other’s sentences, speak on each other’s behalf and are equally at loss on how they are going to cope with life post Baahubali 2: The Conclusion. 

Did you anticipate such stupendous success?

“We dreamt of,” both echo, “to be part of a cult movie, but the sheer scale of Baahubali was actually shocking.

What worked in favour of their film?

“Emotions have universal appeal,” says Rana. “It is a story of two brothers, it tells journey of a mother.” Prabhas adds, “Just like our epics — Ramayana, Mahabhartha; not that I am comparing our film but a story’s success is their audience connect. And the viewers sure have connected with our story.”

Would there be a third instalment?

No. That’s why Baahubali 2: The Conclusion. Not another film, but the story lives and thrives — books, games, apps and more.

Are you anxious about the release?

No, excited! We were anxious the first time; we wondered if the film would strike a chord with Tamil or Telugu-speaking viewers...if it would cut any ice in the East or West region of the country. Who would have imagined that we would come promoting the film here in Chandigarh? We are thrilled this time. We have immensely enjoyed it and hope to pass it on to our viewers.

The film is going to be released in four languages — Hindi, Tamil, Telugu and Malyalam. Some recently released regional films play only till April 27 to make way for Baahubali 2 on April 28...how come?

“Out of sheer respect that four years plus have gone into making of something that the film is,” says Rana.

Know Baahubali

Baahubali, which means One With Strong Arms, a much-revered figure among Jains, was the son of Adinath, the first Tirthankara of Jainism. He is said to have meditated motionless for one year in a standing posture (kayotsarga) and during this time, climbing plants grew around his legs. Later, Baahubali is said to have attained omniscience (Kevala Jnana). According to Jain texts, Baahubali’s soul was liberated from the cycle of births and deaths (moksha) at Mount Kailash. 

— mona@tribunemail.com