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Telugu filmmaker Nag Ashwin's spectacle with Prabhas, Kalki 2898AD (2024), rewrote, in many ways, what modern Indian science fiction can look like on film. Nag, whose team won two prestigious honours at the recently concluded National Film Awards — Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment and Best Special Effects — looks at his journey as a long and gratifying expedition.
"As a team that has been on this very long journey together, receiving this recognition feels extremely special," the filmmaker tells The Hollywood Reporter India. "To see the work that went into creating this world being recognised in this way is a very fulfilling feeling for the entire team. It also gives us a lot of encouragement as we continue with the next chapter."
While the film posed various challenges in terms of scale and invention, the sequel will bring its own reserves of expectations, he observes.
"There were a lot of challenges in Part 1, especially because it was the first time we were attempting something on this scale and in this space. There will be bigger challenges in Part 2, because now it is the second time and the expectations are even higher. So, in many ways, the journey continues to come with new challenges."
The 2024 film, led by Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan and Deepika Padukone, trailed the life of a group of people in a dystopian world taking risks to protect Kalki, the unborn last incarnation of Vishnu.
In its theatrical run of over 50 days, the film has grossed an estimated ₹1,180 crore worldwide. "Since the box office success of Kalki 2898 AD, many films are exploring this genre," says Nag. "The success of the film has already shown that audiences are open to these worlds, and I feel the recognition now gives further encouragement to filmmakers looking to explore the genre."
The sequel to the film, which has been in the works, will be a massive epic, the director assures.
"The audiences can expect the epic they were promised. The recognition for the first film is very gratifying and gives us added energy as we continue working on the next chapter. It is encouraging to see the first film receive this kind of recognition after the journey the entire team has been through, and that naturally adds to the motivation as we work towards Part 2."
Produced by Vyjayanthi Movies, the film has music by Santhosh Narayanan and cinematography by Djordje Stojiljkovic.