‘Gautamiputra Satakarni’: Things to look forward to in the Balakrishna starrer

The Tollywood film industry is all set to begin 2017 with an exciting lineup of big-ticket releases hitting theatres in January. First up on this list is Nandamuri Balakrishna’s ‘Gautamiputra Satakarni’, whose epic trailer made fans sit up and take note of the film. While Balayya fans will soon seen camping outside theatres to catch this actioner on day one, we have drawn up a list of a few reasons why you should be excited and hop on board the Balayya waggon.

Balayya to pay tribute to his father in ‘Gautamiputra Satakarni’

‘Gautamiputra Satakarni’ marks an important milestone in Balayya’s career and also holds a very special place his heart. In an interview, the veteran actor revealed that his father, legendary actor and former chief minister of Andhra Pradesh NT Rama Rao, was supposed to play the Satvahana king in his time. Unfortunately, the project could never take off due to various political reasons. Now, Balayya will be seen playing the part originally meant for his father and this will be his way of paying tribute to his late father.

Balakrishna’s 100th film

Every Balakrishna movie is special for his fans. However, this movie calls for extra celebrations because it marks the actor’s 100th film. Needless to say, it is going to be nothing short of a festival for Balayya's large fan following. Keeping in mind the love and devotion fans have towards the star, the makers launched a special event called Satvahana Pathakotsavam, where the actor and his fans hoisted the Satvahana flag in hundred theatres all across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

Extreme makeover for Balayya

The veteran actor is generally known for his formulaic films with over the top action and hard-hitting dialogues. But for his 100th film, he has decided to break the stereotype once and for all. Balayya will be seen playing the titular character, one of the greatest rulers of the Satvahana kingdom. From the first look and the trailer, it looks like the actor has completely nailed the role and found a way to shut down all his detractors.

National award winning director

There are a lot of expectations from ‘Gautamiputra Satakarni’ and the major reason for that is the film's National award winning director. Krish, who is helming the project, is known as one of the most promising and innovative filmmakers in Telugu cinema. His war drama ‘Kanche’ won the National Award for Best Feature Film in Telugu in 2015. Needless to say, the audience can expect the director to work his magic once again with this film.

Grand sets and costumes

Although it is no ‘Baahubali’, ‘Gautamiputra Satakarni’ has managed to match the grandeur and perfection of the SS Rajamouli epic drama. With larger than life palaces, epic war scenes on land and water, the film holds true to a historic charm that very few movies have been able to achieve. Moreover, the team has done its homework and has nailed the costumes, armour and jewellery which are believed to be relevant to that period. Overall, the makers did not have much room for experimentation as the film is based on true historic accounts.

Hema Malini’s return to Tollywood

The film also offers a takeaway for Bollywood fans. Veteran actress Hema Malini, who is a very prominent actress in B-town is also playing a crucial role in the movie. She will be seen playing the role of Rajamata, the mother of the king. With her regal look and superior acting skills, she is bound to add more value to the film making it a grand spectacle.