A Decade of Baahubali Magic
Can a movie still hold its magic after ten long years? When it comes to Baahubali: The Epic, the answer is a resounding yes.
SS Rajamouli’s magnum opus, first released in 2015, wasn’t just a film—it was a cinematic phenomenon that redefined Indian filmmaking. Now, a decade later, Baahubali: The Epic returns to theaters in a remastered, re-edited format that unites Baahubali: The Beginning and Baahubali: The Conclusion into one breathtaking narrative.
The re-release, spanning 225 minutes, condenses the saga into a single, seamless experience. What’s truly fascinating is how the upgraded version feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new. It’s more than a film; it’s a reminder of why Rajamouli’s storytelling is hailed across continents.
Baahubali: The Epic’ Review – A Timeless Cinematic Triumph
In this Baahubali: The Epic’ review, it’s impossible not to marvel at how Rajamouli’s storytelling continues to resonate. Despite the decade-long gap, the re-release doesn’t merely bank on nostalgia—it thrives on refinement.
Rajamouli trims indulgent stretches, sharpening the film’s focus on emotional and visual storytelling. Every scene now feels tighter, more immersive, and remarkably grand.
The famed question, “Why did Kattappa kill Baahubali?” still stirs the same curiosity and excitement that it did in 2015. This time, however, Rajamouli adds a wink of humor—a knowing acknowledgment of the audience’s anticipation.
Revisiting the Legacy: Why Baahubali Still Captivates Audiences?
Why does Baahubali continue to mesmerize viewers a decade later? The answer lies in the perfect blend of myth, emotion, and grandeur.
Watching Baahubali: The Epic in theaters is a reminder that cinema, when done right, transcends generations. Fans shout dialogues, hum songs, and celebrate scenes as if attending a festival.
At Hyderabad’s Prasads Multiplex, viewers cheer when Sivagami declares, “Mahendra Baahubali brathakali” (“Mahendra Baahubali must live”). It’s not just a line—it’s a collective memory of Indian cinema’s biggest phenomenon.
The Technical Rebirth – Remastering an Indian Classic
The remastered version of Baahubali: The Epic isn’t a lazy re-release. It’s a technically upgraded masterpiece tailored for the modern digital projection era.
The visuals, already ahead of their time in 2015, now shine with crisper resolution and deeper contrast. Rajamouli’s collaboration with KK Senthil Kumar (cinematographer) and Sabu Cyril (production designer) ensures that every frame feels alive, grand, and textured.
A few visual effects may show their age—especially the sweeping CGI landscapes of Mahishmati—but they’re offset by breathtaking set designs and vibrant color palettes.
The Soul of the Story – Royalty, Betrayal, and Redemption
At its heart, Baahubali: The Epic is a deeply emotional tale about identity, justice, and legacy.
Mahendra Baahubali’s journey—from an adventurous young man to the rightful heir of Mahishmati—isn’t just heroic; it’s spiritual. The story intertwines destiny and duty with an almost Shakespearean depth.
Rajamouli’s genius lies in how he balances grandeur with emotion. The waterfalls, the battles, and the coronations are awe-inspiring, but it’s the silent glances between Sivagami, Devasena, and Baahubali that linger in memory.
Re-editing with Purpose – A Sharper, Stronger Narrative
What’s new in this re-release? Rajamouli and his editors have fine-tuned the pacing, trimming unnecessary sequences to strengthen the narrative flow.
The romance between Avantika (Tamannaah Bhatia) and Shivudu (Prabhas) has been reduced to a brief montage—a wise decision that eliminates earlier pacing issues.
Although the trimming risks losing Avantika’s emotional importance, the film’s overall cohesion benefits immensely. It’s sleeker and more immersive, especially for first-time viewers.
Prabhas: The Heart of Baahubali
If Baahubali is an empire, then Prabhas is its crown jewel.
As both Amarendra Baahubali and Mahendra Baahubali, he delivers performances filled with nobility, strength, and humility. Watching him on screen feels like witnessing a living legend.
Even after a decade, Prabhas’s charisma remains unmatched. His dual portrayal captures both the calm authority of a king and the restless energy of a son discovering his destiny.
Rana Daggubati’s Bhallaladeva – A Villain with Depth
Rana Daggubati’s Bhallaladeva isn’t a one-note antagonist. He’s driven by jealousy, ambition, and emotional scars.
His obsession with power and his silent longing for Devasena add layers of complexity.
When Bhallaladeva finally gazes at the crown he’s coveted all his life, the emptiness in his eyes speaks volumes—a haunting reminder that victory without honor is hollow.
The Women of Mahishmati – Strength Beyond Stereotypes
Few Indian films portray women with such depth and dignity as Baahubali: The Epic.
Sivagami (Ramya Krishna) embodies regal authority and maternal sacrifice. Her command, “Mahendra Baahubali brathakali,” has become legendary.
Devasena (Anushka Shetty), on the other hand, represents fiery independence and moral conviction. Her confrontations with Sivagami and Bhallaladeva remain among the saga’s most powerful moments.
Devasena and Amarendra – A Love That Defied Thrones
Their romance isn’t about soft whispers and stolen glances—it’s about courage, integrity, and shared ideals.
Devasena challenges patriarchal norms, while Amarendra stands by her, valuing her spirit over tradition. This union defines the essence of Baahubali: The Epic: equality, respect, and resilience.
Kattappa: The Loyal Warrior Torn by Duty
Sathyaraj’s Kattappa remains one of the most unforgettable characters in Indian cinema. Bound by his oath to the throne, he embodies tragedy and devotion.
His heart-wrenching moment before obeying Sivagami’s command—killing Baahubali—still evokes goosebumps, even after countless viewings.
Sivagami’s Wisdom – The Matriarch of Mahishmati
Sivagami isn’t merely a queen; she’s the soul of Mahishmati. Her silent strength, moral conflict, and eventual realization make her arc one of the most compelling in the film.
In the re-edited version, Rajamouli subtly enhances her emotional beats, emphasizing her internal struggle between love and duty.
The Symbolism of the Waterfall – A Metaphor for Destiny
The iconic waterfall sequence remains one of the most symbolic moments in Baahubali.
When young Shivudu scales the impossible cliffs to reach Mahishmati, it represents human ambition, faith, and destiny. The waterfall, both majestic and menacing, mirrors his journey from innocence to greatness.
Music That Moves Mountains – MM Keeravani’s Score
Music in Baahubali: The Epic isn’t just background—it’s storytelling through sound.
MM Keeravani’s orchestral compositions elevate every emotion, from war cries to tender farewells. The re-mastered audio mix breathes new life into the iconic “Sivuni Aana” and “Dheevara” tracks.
Production Design – The Kingdom That Breathes
Sabu Cyril’s production design turns the fictional world of Mahishmati into a believable, breathing civilization.
Every palace, battlefield, and weapon has a distinct personality, reflecting the film’s underlying themes of pride, loyalty, and justice.
The Cinematography – A Visual Poem by KK Senthil Kumar
Each frame of Baahubali: The Epic feels like a painting in motion.
From the earthy browns of Mahishmati to the lush greens of Kuntala, Senthil Kumar’s cinematography balances realism with mythic grandeur. The battle sequences, especially the siege of Mahishmati, remain a masterclass in visual storytelling.
A Celebration of Indian Mythology and Imagination
Rajamouli draws deeply from Indian epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, but he reinterprets them with universal emotions and modern cinematic language.
This blend of mythology and realism gives Baahubali a timeless appeal, making it relatable to both Indian and global audiences.
The Audience Experience – When Cinema Becomes Worship
Watching Baahubali: The Epic in a packed theater is an experience unlike any other. Fans chant dialogues, applaud scenes, and sing along to songs. It’s not mere viewing—it’s a ritual of cinematic devotion.
The Humor and Humanity – Rajamouli’s Balancing Act
Even amid war and betrayal, Rajamouli infuses humor and warmth. His self-aware nods to fans—like playful references to the famous “Kattappa killed Baahubali” question—show his mastery over tone.
Flaws That Fade with Time
Yes, a few CGI landscapes feel dated, and the climax runs slightly long. But these are minor blemishes in an otherwise majestic canvas. The remastered version’s pacing, visuals, and sound more than compensate for these aging effects.
‘Baahubali: The Epic’ Review – Why It Still Matters?
A decade later, Baahubali: The Epic stands not just as a film but as a cultural revolution.
It redefined what Indian cinema could achieve globally and inspired a generation of filmmakers to dream bigger. Rajamouli’s storytelling isn’t just entertainment—it’s legacy.
SS Rajamouli – The Visionary Architect of Dreams
Few directors possess the ability to turn fantasy into emotional truth.
Rajamouli’s meticulous attention to detail, command over narrative rhythm, and empathy for his characters make Baahubali immortal.
Critical and Audience Reception – Then and Now
When Baahubali first released, it broke box-office records. Now, its re-release garners standing ovations. Critics hail its restoration quality, while audiences celebrate the nostalgia.
Once again, Baahubali proves that timeless stories never fade—they evolve.
Global Impact – How Baahubali Redefined Indian Cinema?
Baahubali wasn’t just a domestic hit—it was a global breakthrough for Indian storytelling.
Its success opened doors for Indian filmmakers on international streaming platforms, and its influence is visible in modern epics like RRR and Ponniyin Selvan.
FAQs About Baahubali: The Epic’ Review
1. What is the runtime of Baahubali: The Epic (Re-release)?
The re-edited and remastered version runs for 225 minutes, combining both films into a single epic experience.
2. Who directed Baahubali: The Epic?
The film is directed by SS Rajamouli, one of India’s most visionary filmmakers.
3. What makes this re-release different from the originals?
It features technical upgrades, crisper visuals, refined editing, and a condensed storyline that enhances narrative flow.
4. Who plays the main roles in Baahubali: The Epic?
The lead cast includes Prabhas, Rana Daggubati, Anushka Shetty, Ramya Krishna, and Sathyaraj.
5. Does the movie still hold up visually after ten years?
Absolutely. While a few effects show age, the production design, cinematography, and music remain breathtaking.
6. Why is Baahubali considered a landmark in Indian cinema?
Because it blended mythological storytelling with cutting-edge visuals, uniting audiences across languages and cultures.
Conclusion: The Legend Lives On
Even after ten years, Baahubali: The Epic proves that true cinema doesn’t age—it endures.
Rajamouli’s vision, supported by extraordinary performances and timeless music, ensures that Baahubali isn’t just remembered—it’s revered.
From the mighty waterfalls to the echoing war cries of Mahishmati, every frame reminds us why Baahubali isn’t just a film—it’s a phenomenon.
