Garikapati Narasimha Rao, a prominent figure renowned for his acerbic wit and straightforward commentary, has once again sparked a debate with his critique of the blockbuster film, “Kalki 2898 AD”. The veteran personality, known for his satirical approach to social and political issues, has taken aim at the film’s portrayal of Mahabharata characters, asserting that it has distorted historical facts.
In a recent video that has quickly gained traction online, Rao emphasizes the importance of historical knowledge. He argues that a lack of understanding of history can lead to misconceptions, particularly among younger generations who may be more influenced by popular culture. The filmmaker’s criticism centers on the film’s reinterpretation of Mahabharata characters. Rao contends that “Kalki 2898 AD” has inadvertently reversed the traditional narrative, elevating characters like Karna and Ashwatthama to heroic status while portraying Arjuna, Bheema, and others as villains.
Rao’s critique is particularly scathing when he addresses the famous dialogue “Alasyamaindha Acharya Putra” (Son of the Cursed Teacher). He points out that while Ashwatthama did assist Karna during the war, the reverse was not true. According to historical accounts, Karna never offered any significant support to Ashwatthama. The film’s deviation from this historical fact, Rao argues, is a significant misrepresentation.
The film, released in June, was a resounding success, grossing over 1100 crores worldwide. Director Nag Ashwin’s imaginative blend of Mahabharata characters with a futuristic Kaliyuga setting captivated audiences. However, Rao’s critique has ignited discussions about the film’s historical accuracy and the impact of popular culture on public perception.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the film’s creators will respond to Rao’s criticisms. With the anticipation for “Kalki 3102 AD” growing, the controversy surrounding its predecessor is likely to influence the reception of the upcoming installment.