Rana Daggubati, known for his compelling portrayal of Bhallaladeva in the epic 'Baahubali' series, has, on multiple occasions, expressed a sentiment that might surprise fans: a certain level of frustration, or perhaps just weariness, when constantly associated with the film, especially concerning comparisons to Prabhas' character. While immensely proud of being part of a project that achieved unprecedented success and recognition for Indian cinema on a global scale, Daggubati seems keen on carving out an identity beyond the shadow of 'Baahubali'.
The 'Baahubali' films, directed by S.S. Rajamouli, were a monumental achievement, uniting audiences across India and setting new benchmarks for visual storytelling and box office collections. The story revolves around a dynastic conflict in a fictional kingdom, with Prabhas playing the titular hero, Baahubali, and Daggubati as his antagonist cousin, Bhallaladeva. Both actors delivered memorable performances that contributed significantly to the films' success.
Daggubati's portrayal of Bhallaladeva was particularly lauded for its intensity and villainous charisma. He invested considerable effort in transforming his physique and embodying the character's ruthless ambition. However, the sheer magnitude of 'Baahubali's' success meant that both Prabhas and Rana became inextricably linked to their respective roles. For Prabhas, this association has largely been positive, cementing his status as a pan-Indian superstar. For Daggubati, while the recognition is appreciated, there's an underlying desire to showcase his versatility and explore diverse roles.
One instance highlighting this sentiment occurred during the pre-release event of 'King of Kotha' in Hyderabad back in 2023. Daggubati recounted an incident where he witnessed the unprofessional behavior of a Hindi actress on a film set. While the anecdote itself was unrelated to 'Baahubali,' the fact that Daggubati, primarily known to a wider audience for his role in the film, was sharing such an experience underscores his attempt to connect with the audience on a more personal level, beyond the 'Baahubali' tag.
Moreover, the constant comparisons to Prabhas' Baahubali character can be a source of irritation. While the two actors share a warm camaraderie and have often engaged in playful banter on social media, the inherent nature of their roles – one a beloved hero, the other a formidable villain – often leads to skewed perceptions. The audience tends to remember and celebrate the hero more emphatically. This isn't to diminish Daggubati's contribution, but rather to highlight the challenges of being perpetually viewed through the lens of a specific character, especially when that character is positioned as the antagonist.
In a recent instance, the official 'Baahubali' X account ignited a playful debate by posting: "What if Kattappa didn't kill Baahubali?". Daggubati jokingly responded, "I would have killed him!", showcasing his Bhallaladeva persona. Prabhas then playfully retorted, "I let it happen, Bhalla, for this!", referencing the film's massive box office success. While this exchange was lighthearted, it also underscores the inescapable association with their 'Baahubali' characters.
Daggubati has consistently sought to diversify his filmography, taking on roles in different languages and genres. He has explored characters with varying shades of grey, showcasing his acting prowess beyond the archetypal villain. His choices reflect a desire to be recognized as a versatile actor, not just as Bhallaladeva from 'Baahubali'. While he acknowledges and appreciates the film's contribution to his career, he is also actively working towards building an identity independent of it. The upcoming re-release of 'Baahubali: The Epic' on October 31st will undoubtedly reignite the 'Baahubali' fever. It remains to be seen how Daggubati will navigate the renewed attention and continue to carve his own distinct path.
