4 min readNew DelhiUpdated: Apr 22, 2024 10:04 AM IST
Nag Ashwin’s Kalki 2898 AD, the upcoming dystopian science-fiction film, continues to generate significant buzz, particularly with the recent unveiling of Amitabh Bachchan’s character, Ashwatthama. Drawing inspiration from the Mahabharata, Ashwatthama is portrayed as an immortal character who has been awaiting the emergence of an avatar. A recent teaser promo shows Bachchan covered in yellow garments, engaged in prayer before a Shiva linga in a cave-like setting.
In the teaser, a curious boy called Raia interrupts Ashwatthama while he’s lost in meditation. When Raia asks him, “Can you not die? Are you divine? Who are you?” the character then tells him that his “final battle” has begun and he has waited for this avatar his entire life. The character’s intriguing backstory has further fuelled anticipation for the film. Director Ashwin has teased fans with glimpses of the film’s cutting-edge technology and visual effects.
The first look of Amitabh Bachchan’s character in the film looks intriguing
The 21-second teaser, unveiled during the Indian Premier League (IPL) match between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), on Sunday, gives a quick glimpse of a digitally de-aged Bachchan who looks decades younger. The internet, amused by a ‘young’ Bachchan, couldn’t help but react to the teaser and the megastar’s ‘youthful’ look. “I thought it was Ravi Teja,” said a user. Another fan wrote, “This is Prabhas in a dual role.”
“The biggest star Indian Film industry has witnessed for 5 decades & continuing… what an epic moment to celebrate his Youth as ASHWTTHAMA in 2024!!” a comment on X (formerly Twitter) read.
Bachchan also took to his X account on Sunday to share his experience of working on the film. “T 4988 – It’s been an experience for me like no other .. The mind to think such a product, the execution the exposure to modern technology and above all the company of colleagues with stratospheric Super star presence (sic)…” he said.
Abhishek Bachchan, impressed with the first look of Bachchan’s character, the immortal Ashwatthama, also took to X to share the teaser. “THE BOSS!!!! @SrBachchan #Kalki2898AD,” he wrote.
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While Kalki 2898 AD was initially slated for release on May 9, it has experienced delays, with speculation mounting that a new release date may be announced soon. With a reported budget of $75 million, the film is set to be one of the most ambitious and expensive Indian productions to date.
In addition to Bachchan, the star-studded cast includes Kamal Haasan, Deepika Padukone, and Disha Patani, with Prabhas taking on the role of an avatar of the Hindu god Vishnu.
Hinting at the continued delay in the release date of the film, Bachchan, in his blog post, wrote, “.. and it has appeared .. there is an official teaser to come also .. waiting for its time lock to open .. It did not open here and it has I believe displayed at 7:15 pm on the TV channel .. but here no sight despite the request .. well at times your requests are not followed .. or not been allowed to be followed ..(sic)”
He also spoke about his Sunday darshan outside his residence, Jalsa, in Mumbai, revealing that despite the sweltering heat, his fans showed up for the customary meet and greet. “But the GOJ were followed .. and the joy of meeting all despite the warm climate is a blessing by itself .. No more then .. The pictures for Sunday did come but not of standard and hence they have been put aside .. But the love and grace of the Ef never to be pt aside ..(sic)” he added.
The first look of Amitabh Bachchan’s character in the film looks intriguing
Amitabh Bachchan as Ashwathamma in Kalki 2898 AD teaser. (Photo: YouTube)