Shahid Kapoor Ashwatthama Put On Hold

Shahid Kapoor Ashwatthama put on hold. "Ashwatthama: The Saga Continues" Put on Hold: Budgetary Concerns and Logistical Challenges Stall Ambitious Project.

Shahid Kapoor's much-anticipated mythological action film, "Ashwatthama: The Saga Continues," has been put on hold, according to sources close to the production. The ambitious project, announced in March, was set to be one of Amazon Prime Video's biggest Indian productions, featuring Shahid in the titular role and helmed by Kannada filmmaker Sachin B Ravi.

The film, produced by Vashu Bhagnani's Pooja Entertainment in collaboration with Amazon Studios, faced significant challenges related to its massive budget, exceeding ₹500 crore, and complex logistics.

Sources within the production team revealed that the project's scale presented a major hurdle, with plans to shoot across multiple countries proving to be a logistical and financial burden. Pooja Entertainment's existing debt further complicated the situation.

Shahid Kapoor had already begun physical training for the film, which was set to blend modern-day elements with mythological themes inspired by the legendary warrior Ashwatthama from the Mahabharata.

The project's postponement reflects the cautious approach studios are taking towards mega-budget films in the current market. The inherent risks associated with such ventures, particularly with a high-concept project like "Ashwatthama," have led to a reassessment of the project's viability.

While "Ashwatthama" is currently on hold, Shahid Kapoor is gearing up for the release of his next film, "Deva," directed by Rosshan Andrrews and co-starring Pooja Hegde and Kubbra Sait. The film, originally slated for an October release, will now hit theaters on February 14th, 2024. "Deva" follows a rebellious police officer investigating a complex case, uncovering a web of deception and betrayal along the way.

This delay in "Ashwatthama" serves as a reminder of the challenges and complexities faced by filmmakers attempting to execute large-scale productions in the current cinematic landscape. While the project remains on hold, fans eagerly await updates on its future and continue to follow Shahid Kapoor's upcoming ventures.