For the first time, new-age star Vijay Devarakonda played a spirited mythological warrior Arjuna in his latest release ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ which also had reigning star Prabhas essaying the role of revered Karna in the sci-fi thriller. “Prabhas aptly fits into these mythological characters for his stature and larger-than-life- image since filmmakers cast important actors for such roles,” says producer M S Raju who made the blockbuster ‘Varsham’ with Prabhas. “Prabhas also played Lord Ram in ‘Adhipurush’ and proved that he could pull off divine roles with ease," he adds. He claims that Nag Aswhin tactfully blended mythology with science fiction to offer a new-age entertainer. “Vijay Devarakonda is seen as a warrior Arjuna in ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ and showcased his fiery side, albeit in a cameo,yet with an impact,” adds Raju who says that more actors could join the bandwagon in Tollywood.
He claims Telugu cinema has been trail-blazer in mythological films for the last 60 years and ahead of other industries in this genre. “Legendary actor NTR was the undisputed king in donning mythological roles. He played Lord Ram in films like ‘Seetha Rama Kalyanam’ and ‘Lava Kusa’ and played Lord Krishna in blockbusters like ‘Maya Bazaar’ and ‘Sri Krishna Pandaveeyam’. On the other hand, he impressed as Ravana in ‘Bhookailas’ and Karna in ‘Dana Veera Sura Karna’ and showcased his acting repertoire. Akkineni Nageswara Rao also had his share of mythological roles along with Krishna and Krishnam Raju. In fact, Telugu filmmakers spent lavishly on those films and also did a lot of research to get their look, gait and gestures of divine roles right. Even now people relate them to godly avatars which is a rarity,” he points out
Recently, Nandamuri Balakrishna played the role of Lord Ram in ‘Sri Rama Jayam’ and Chiranjeevi played Lord Shiva in ‘Sri Manjunatha’ along with their regular commercial movies. Junior NTR rocked as Lord Yama in commercial hit 'Yamadonga' and showcased his histrionic skills. “New-age stars may take up such roles once in a while since it demands their total focus and cuts down other work. If something really exciting comes their way, they could give it a shot. However, mythological films have their edge and charm if properly made and Telugu audiences have loved such efforts,” he concludes.
