Hyderabad: Rana Daggubati has opened up about the intense physical and mental demands of working on the Baahubali franchise, describing it as a transformative six-year journey that pushed the entire team beyond their limits.
Directed by S. S. Rajamouli, the Baahubali series redefined Indian cinema with its scale, storytelling, and visual grandeur, becoming one of the most iconic film sagas in the country.
“Every scene was demanding”
Speaking in a recent interview, Rana said it was impossible to single out one particularly challenging scene, as the entire filmmaking process was equally intense.
“We shot that for like six years… most of those were like that. It’s not about one scene,” he said, adding that the team was constantly learning and experimenting during production.
He highlighted that, at the time, Indian cinema lacked the technical infrastructure and experience for large-scale war films and advanced visual effects, making the process even more challenging.
Pushing boundaries in Indian cinema
Rana emphasised that Baahubali was not just another film but an ambitious attempt to create something unprecedented in Indian cinema.
According to him, the project required a visionary director and a highly committed team willing to stay focused for years.
“It needed a master like Rajamouli and a team that came together for that vision,” he said, noting that sustaining creative energy for such a long period was rare in filmmaking.
Physical transformation and identity shift
The actor, who played the powerful antagonist Bhallaladeva, also spoke about his dramatic physical transformation for the role.
He recalled returning to India after working abroad and wondering whether people would even recognise him due to his changed appearance.
In a memorable incident, an immigration officer recognised him instantly as “King Bhallaladeva”, reinforcing the lasting cultural impact of the film.
“That’s when I realised the film is ageing beautifully,” Rana said, adding that cinema has the power to leave a timeless impression.
A landmark franchise
The Baahubali journey began with Baahubali: The Beginning in 2015, starring Prabhas in a dual role alongside Rana Daggubati, Anushka Shetty, Tamannaah Bhatia, Ramya Krishnan, Sathyaraj, and Nassar.
The sequel, Baahubali: The Conclusion, became a massive global success, collecting approximately ₹1,788 crore worldwide and ranking among the highest-grossing Indian films of all time.
Conclusion
Rana Daggubati’s reflections shed light on the dedication and perseverance behind one of India’s most ambitious film projects. The Baahubali franchise not only pushed cinematic boundaries but also left a lasting legacy, proving that bold storytelling and commitment can redefine an entire industry.