Indian mythology includes concepts such as time, immortality, destruction, rebirth and advanced worlds, which Nag Ashwin believes can provide strong foundations for science-fiction narratives.
‘Kalki 2898 AD’ Is Only the Beginning
When asked whether only a small part of Indian mythology's potential has been explored through science fiction, Nag Ashwin responded positively.
He said Kalki 2898 AD is only the beginning and that there are many more worlds, ideas and concepts within Indian mythology that can be explored through modern storytelling.
The filmmaker believes these ideas can be combined with futuristic settings and modern technology to create new forms of storytelling.
Mythology Offers Futuristic Ideas
Nag Ashwin pointed to several concepts in Indian mythology that can work particularly well in science-fiction stories.
Ideas involving time, immortality, destruction, rebirth and advanced worlds can provide filmmakers with material for futuristic narratives.
He believes these concepts can be developed into stories that appeal not only to Indian audiences but also to viewers around the world.
Success of Kalki Increased Industry Confidence
Nag Ashwin said the success of Kalki 2898 AD has increased confidence within the Indian film industry to invest in ambitious projects combining mythology and science fiction.
The film demonstrated that a large-scale story based on these concepts could be produced successfully and attract audiences.
According to the filmmaker, the financial success of the movie could also encourage actors and producers to support more projects exploring similar ideas and genres.
About Kalki 2898 AD
Kalki 2898 AD is a mythological science-fiction film set in a dystopian future in the year 2898 AD.
Set around the city of Kashi, the story follows a group attempting to protect the unborn child of SUM-80, who is believed to be Kalki, the final incarnation of Vishnu.
The film features Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Disha Patani, Shobana and several other actors.
Two National Film Awards
Kalki 2898 AD recently received two honours at the 72nd National Film Awards.
The film won the award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment and also received recognition for Best Special Effects.
Sequel in Development
A sequel to Kalki 2898 AD is currently being developed, with production activities already underway.
Regular filming for the second instalment is expected to begin in October, according to the latest information.
Nag Ashwin's Filmmaking Career
Nag Ashwin made his directorial debut in 2015 with Yevade Subramanyam. He gained widespread recognition with the 2018 biographical film Mahanati, based on the life of legendary actress Savitri.
He later took on the ambitious mythology and science-fiction project Kalki 2898 AD, which marked a major shift in scale and genre in his filmmaking career.
Conclusion
Nag Ashwin believes Indian mythology has immense potential for science-fiction storytelling. He described Kalki 2898 AD as only the beginning and said the film's success has increased confidence in creating ambitious projects that explore mythological worlds, futuristic ideas and new genres.
