It seems to be the season of ascetics in Tollywood. Now, producer-turned-director Abhishek Nama is making a magnum opus by delving into the enigmatic world of Naga Sadhus in his upcoming film 'Nagabandham'. "Probably for the first time on the big screen, we are exploring the cult of Naga Sadhus and showcasing their mystical powers and unflinching devotion besides depicting their bare souls and boundless spirit,” he says and adds, “Aghoris are filling a lot of space in Telugu movies but we are showcasing Naga sadhus who belong to a group of ascetics who have renounced the materialistic world and practiced celibacy to escape from the cycle of birth and death to attain moksha. The unique characteristic features of these saints include the fact that they remain naked, even in biting cold," he informs
Hence they are a unique cult and staunch devotees of Lord Vishnu and would do anything to protect his legacy and treasures," he adds. He has roped in young actor Virat Karna to play the protagonist while planning to rope in a big star to play another revered sadhu in the film. “We have designed unique and powerful roles for Virat as well as for another noted actor. Already, we have shot 30% of the film in specially erected sets,” he adds.
Was he inspired by socio-fantasies like ‘Karthikeya 2’ and ‘HanuMan’, Abhishek explains, “Socio-fantasies are the order of the day and work better with Gen Z viewers over old-fashioned mythological films. Also, supernatural thrillers would connect the contemporary world with the fantasy world with the right dose of emotion and mystical elements. Young viewers would be shown a glimpse of our ancient bhakti tradition and Hindu rituals and glory of ascetics, " he points out.
He has directed a spy thriller "Devil" and is now set for VFX Wonder. “We intend to deliver a visual spectacle with a divine touch. We have also used AI technology to recreate the mystical world without storyboard artists. It has helped the art director and others to recreate elegant sets, props, and artifacts without much fuss," he informs.
On Nagasadhus arriving in big numbers at Maha Kumbh Mela, "We are exploring the possibility of shooting some portions and we have time till February 20 and waiting for few permissions," he concludes.
