Rajamouli Turns NTR Bitter Experience Into Blockbuster Formula

Rajamouli's filmmaking journey bears a poignant connection to an experience from his childhood, rooted in a bitter encounter with an NTR movie. This encounter left a lasting impression on him, shaping a rule he fervently adheres to in his own directorial endeavors.

The genesis of this rule can be traced back to his early days as a director, notably with the film "Student No. 1," featuring Jr. NTR in the lead role. As his directorial prowess blossomed through subsequent projects like "Simhadri" and "Chhatrapati," Rajamouli's affinity for action-packed narratives became evident. Even during promotional interviews, his passion for action films was unmistakable, underscoring a childhood preference that remained unchanged.

Reflecting on his upbringing within a large family, Rajamouli recounted a pivotal moment when he and his siblings were allowed to watch only one movie per month. An episode involving NTR's film "Aggipidugu" left a profound impact on him. Expecting exhilarating sword fights, Rajamouli found himself disillusioned as the movie failed to deliver the anticipated action sequences. Instead, he was confronted with a tragic ending that left him in tears.

This experience instilled in Rajamouli a resolve never to conclude his films with a similarly somber tone. He vowed that the heroes in his movies would always triumph, ensuring a satisfying and uplifting conclusion for the audience. This commitment to avoiding tragic endings has become a hallmark of his filmmaking style, evident in works like "Vikramarkudu," "Magadheera," and "Eega."

Even in the epic saga of "Baahubali," where the protagonist faces adversity, Rajamouli maintains a balance by providing a resolution that offers hope and redemption. This philosophy, influenced by his childhood encounter with NTR's film, underscores Rajamouli's dedication to crafting narratives that resonate with audiences on an emotional level.

Looking ahead, Rajamouli's cinematic journey continues with his upcoming project, "SSMB29," featuring Mahesh Babu as the lead. Set against the backdrop of African forests, this action-adventure film reflects Rajamouli's ambition to captivate global audiences with his storytelling prowess. As he ventures into new territories, Rajamouli remains steadfast in his commitment to delivering narratives that inspire and uplift, a testament to the enduring impact of his formative experiences.