SS Rajamouli: Only larger-than-life stories engulf me

The period drama stars Ajay Devgn, Alia Bhatt, Jr NTR and Ram Charan

How do you surpass the success of the Baahubali franchise? If you're SS Rajamouli, you strip down the films to find the cause of the success - in this case, the larger-than-life experience hitherto almost unseen in Indian cinema. "I wouldn't start a film unless I am sure I have that kind of experience to offer," begins the director, counted among the most imaginative Indian storytellers today.

With RRR, Rajamouli has moved from fantasy to a chapter of Indian history, as he tells the story of revolutionaries Alluri Sitarama Raju and Komaram Bheem. The genre has changed, as has the cast. But his signature extravagance remains. "I can't look at stories in any other way. Only larger-than-life stories excite and engulf me. My characters might have abilities [of a superhero], but the audience connects to the real emotions. The reason the Ramayana and Mahabharat resonate with us is not because of the [characters'] superpowers, but because of human emotions," explains the director, who is known to pen his stories by hand. "My stories are entirely handwritten. No one can read my scrawly writing. But everything you see on the screen is on that paper."

SS Rajamouli. Pic/Yogen Shah

The period drama features Ram Charan, Jr NTR, Ajay Devgn and Alia Bhatt. Rajamouli reveals the deep friendship between Charan and Jr NTR led him to cast them as protagonists. "I needed conflict between the two good guys. Even though they have massive fan bases [who consider each other rivals], the two actors are good friends." While Bhatt was chosen for her "fragile" appearance that hides a strong spirit, Devgn's casting was crucial. "The character [had to personify] honesty. We did a poll in the story and direction department to see which actor [fit the bill]. Everyone named Ajay."

His stories, which have grown to gain pan-India appeal, highlight the valour and virtues of men, painting them in a heroic light. Would he ever consider making a woman-centric film? "It's a male-dominated society. What happens in society is reflected in the arts. But I believe you need a character that touches people's hearts; male or female is secondary. If I have an impactful female character, I will definitely make a film."