Dr Chandraprakash Dwivedi: Film based on medieval epic Prithviraj Raso

Akshay Kumar

With Prithviraj, Dr Chandraprakash Dwivedi is attempting his most ambitious venture. Like his previous acclaimed offerings Chanakya, Pinjar (2003) and Mohalla Assi (2018) that were based on books, the upcoming Akshay Kumar-starrer is inspired by a famous literary work. "Prithviraj is based mainly on medieval literature, an epic titled Prithviraj Raso written by the poet, Chand Bardai. Apart from a couple of versions of Raso, there are many other literary works on Prithviraj's life and some commentaries on Raso," says the filmmaker, who has taken on the responsibility of introducing the audience to warrior king Prithviraj Chauhan. The ruler of the Chahamana dynasty had valiantly foiled the early invasions of Muhammad of Ghor before being defeated in the second battle of Tarain in 1192.

Dr Chandraprakash Dwivedi

Recreating the 12th-century world was no mean feat as the period piece went on floors in Jaipur in November 2019, and was subsequently shot in Mumbai. To add to that, the historical drama was among the many films affected by the lockdown last year. But Dwivedi was not bogged down by these obstacles; instead, he was only too happy to give shape to his dream project, aided by months of research. "I got involved in exhaustive research as I enjoy the process of entering the unknown and unexplored world of the great heroes of India. It is like having a dialogue with these characters in their times. I am sure most writers have experienced this strange phenomenon. [For this project too], I studied the art, archaeology, costumes, material culture and available historical data [so that I could accurately] recreate the era and its personalities."

Akshay Kumar and Manushi Chhillar at the mahurat puja

The film, which is eyeing a Diwali 2021 release, marks the Bollywood debut of former Miss World Manushi Chhillar, who plays the role of Chauhan's wife Sanyogita.