It was S.S. rajamouli who revolutionized indian cinema's approach to storytelling with the introduction of a grand two-part saga through Baahubali. While sequels and continuations existed in indian cinema before, Baahubali redefined the scale, ambition, and financial viability of multi-part films. The franchise not only broke box office records but also created a cultural phenomenon, setting a new benchmark for storytelling, VFX, and cinematic grandeur. After its massive success, filmmakers across industries were inspired to split narratives into two parts, hoping to emulate Rajamouli’s magic. His work effectively laid the foundation for high-budget, multi-part storytelling in mainstream indian cinema.

However, not all who followed in his footsteps found similar success. While the kgf franchise managed to build on the momentum with its gritty world-building and larger-than-life execution, most other sequels fell short of expectations. Films like Pushpa, Salaar, and even the much-anticipated indian 2 couldn’t replicate the impact or emotional depth that Baahubali brought. indian 2, in particular, was expected to be a powerful continuation of Shankar’s classic, but its disjointed execution and lack of emotional resonance left audiences underwhelmed. The trend that once promised an era of epic storytelling began to feel like a formulaic approach, driven more by commercial intent than creative necessity.

In a poetic full circle, rajamouli, who started the trend, is now choosing to break away from it with his upcoming project SSMB29. Starring Mahesh Babu, this jungle adventure promises to be a standalone cinematic experience without a sequel. Set against the backdrop of dense forests and filled with thrilling, Indiana Jones-style action, the film aims to deliver a complete story in one powerful installment. Rajamouli’s decision to keep SSMB29 a single-part film sends a clear message—sequels should serve the story, not the market. In doing so, he not only challenges the very trend he popularized but also reaffirms that true storytelling lies in quality over quantity.
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SSMB29

G GOWTHAM

04/04/2025 11:03 AM