‘Kalki 2898 AD’ release trailer: Amitabh Bachchan battles Prabhas to save Deepika Padukone

Kamal Haasan plays the villain in the futuristic epic, which is scheduled for release on 27 June, in multiple regional languages.

BySouth First Desk

Published Jun 21, 2024 | 11:26 PM Updated Jun 21, 2024 | 11:27 PM

When discussing his intimidating bald appearance in the movie, Kamal Haasan mentioned the goal was to venture into uncharted territory with his character's look. (Supplied)

The makers of Kalki 2898 AD unveiled a new “release trailer” on 21 June. It showcased Amitabh Bachchan’s character, Ashwatthama, as he embarked on a mission to safeguard Deepika Padukone’s character and her unborn child.

Directed by Nag Ashwin, the sci-fi film, Kalki 2898 AD, stars Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, and Disha Patani, in prominent roles. The newly released trailer offers an in-depth look into a dystopian world, driven by both conflict and emotions. It also explores the storyline further, introducing additional characters beyond the main cast.

The two-minute and twenty-two-second trailer confirms the expected revelation—Deepika Padukone’s character is carrying Kalki, the prophesied avatar of Kali Yuga. In the video, Ashwatthama, portrayed by Amitabh Bachchan, declares, “God resides in your womb,” before engaging in combat with Prabhas’ character, Bhairava.

Kamal Haasan’s character observes that humanity remains unchanged despite many chances for transformation, and his look as a sage is revealed. The trailer also showcases Prabhas in a new robotic suit, ready to take on the world.

Earlier this week, the first trailer of Kalki 2898 AD was released, highlighting Bujji, a customised car, and Prabhas’s sidekick. The clip shows Bujji as Bhairava’s loyal companion as they engage in an epic battle.

The team behind Kalki 2898 AD recently hosted a pre-release event in Mumbai. Rana Daggubati served as the host, while Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kamal Haasan attended. Deepika dazzled in a black dress and humorously attributed her pregnant belly to Prabhas feeding her. Amitabh Bachchan had a notable moment when he praised producer Aswini Dutt by touching his feet.

Although Nag Ashwin was not present at the Mumbai pre-release event, he sent a video message providing details about the film’s setting. He explained that only one city, Kasi, remains. The affluent live in luxury within The Complex, a massive inverted pyramid structure towering over Kasi. Those outside endure harsh conditions and dream of entering the Complex. Shambala, a hidden sanctuary, offers refuge for people of all cultures and religions.

In Hindu mythology, Kalki is the tenth and final incarnation of the god Vishnu, destined to appear at the end of the Kali Yuga, the darkest era in human history.

Kalki 2898 AD: Kamal excited to play a bad guy; Big B calls it a futuristic film

‘Beyond the conventional thinking’

“It has been an incredible experience to work in an environment that goes beyond the conventional thinking of the film industry,” said Amitabh Bachchan.

Kamal Haasan portrays the antagonist, Supreme Yaskin. “I’ve always wanted to play the villain because the bad guy gets to do all the interesting things in the film. While the heroes are busy singing romantic songs and waiting for the heroine, the villain can just go and do as he pleases,” he said.

Deepika Padukone shared her thoughts, saying, “We explored a completely new world, going through various phases to understand what this movie is about. The magic in Nag Ashwin’s mind is finally here for everyone to see. As actors, we’ve discovered this along the way. It has been an incredible experience both personally and professionally.”

‘Bigger than a dream’

Prabhas, who stars as the protagonist Bhairava, described working with his co-stars on such a large-scale production as “bigger than a dream.”

Previously unseen footage from the film was showcased at the event, which also included drummers and a cappella performance of the theme song.

Kalki 2898 AD is set for a worldwide theatrical release on 27 June in Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, Hindi, and English.

Also read: ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ to have a runtime of over 3 hours?

(Edited by S Subhakeerthana)

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