Exploring the Future of Indian Mythology in Cinema: Nag Ashwin's Vision
Nag Ashwin's Vision for Indian Mythology in Film
File image of Filmmaker Nag Ashwini receiving National Award from President Murmu (Photo: Media House)
Mumbai, Sep 25: Filmmaker Nag Ashwin is convinced that Indian mythology has vast potential to inspire innovative science-fiction narratives, with his upcoming film, Kalki 2898 AD, marking a significant initial step.
The director, whose film won accolades for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment and Best Special Effects at the 72nd National Film Awards, expressed that the film's commercial success has instilled confidence in the industry to support ambitious projects that delve into mythological themes and genres.
According to Ashwin, Indian mythology encompasses concepts of time, immortality, destruction, rebirth, and advanced civilizations that can resonate with futuristic storytelling.
When asked if he believes we have merely begun to explore its potential as a basis for science fiction, he affirmed, “Absolutely, I see Kalki 2898 AD as just the start. Our mythology is rich with possibilities and ideas waiting to be explored.”
The filmmaker feels that “Kalki 2898 AD” has successfully demonstrated that such grand projects can be executed effectively.
“The film has also provided the financial assurance that large-scale projects can be realized successfully. This is a crucial step towards encouraging actors and producers to approve more projects that investigate these themes and genres,” he added.
Kalki 2898 AD is an upcoming Indian Telugu-language epic mythological science fiction film set for release in 2024. It boasts a star-studded cast, including Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Shobana, and Disha Patani.
Drawing inspiration from Hindu texts, the film is the first in the planned Kalki Cinematic Universe. It is set in a dystopian future in the year 2898 AD in the city of Kashi, where a group embarks on a mission to safeguard the unborn child of lab subject SUM-80, believed to be Kalki, the final avatar of Vishnu.
Nag Ashwin began his career as an assistant director under Sekhar Kammula and made his directorial debut in 2015 with the coming-of-age film Yevade Subramanyam. He gained significant recognition for his 2018 film Mahanati, a biopic about actress Savitri.