Unravelling of a dystopian world where technology is thriving but humanity is suffering. People must fight for the basic needs of food, water, and shelter. An artful blend of sci-fi and Hindu mythology, Kalki 2898 AD narrates a familiar storyline yet offers something new.
Kalki the tenth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is prophesied to end the Kaliyuga (the shortest and the darkest Yug; where humanity would cease to exist) and people’s sufferings. Kalki 2898 AD Part 1 throws light upon the birth story of a mighty god. The film begins with futuristic scenes of the city of Kashi, the only surviving town in the post-apocalyptic world.
Kashi and the Design
As the only habitable town, the design of the set makes it very easy for the viewers to understand that the town is breathing its last breaths. The rotting buildings and dark and dingy streets showcase the emotions of the people and their lost hope. However, one can see some old carvings of deities and some statues hidden, and the dialogues shared between the public state that people still have not lost hope. They are awaiting the birth of their protector.
The costumes of the bounty hunters and their heavy weaponry are again an example of the advanced technology of the dark future. Fighting with one another to collect units, the currency to enter the Complex (a heavenly abode where all the rich people are residing, away from all the depression thriving in the world).
Complex
In the movie, it is depicted that the complex is a floating structure where all the rich and elite upper-class people have shifted. They live a luxurious life in their haven, where they get fresh air, food and all their desires are fulfilled. Actor Prabhas who plays the role of Bhairav infiltrates the place with his friend Roxie (Disha Patani). Initially, Roxie is employed there but Bhairava convinces her to take him with her for help. Later on, they explore the place followed by a dance sequence where they are seen hiding from the complex guards. There people are seen partying, eating rich food, and being oblivious to the danger lurking in the shadows.
In a few scenes, the science lab is also shown where all the breeders are kept. The administration at the complex is working on a secret project and the Supreme (Kamal Hasan)
is waiting for a special serum that is to be extracted from the breeders but the result has always been faulty.
Later in the movie, we are also introduced to the Supreme, who is living on a different level of complexity, where only a few people are allowed. The room where Supreme resides exudes an eerie vibe. The supreme is seen meditating without any disturbance and the walls of the place scream power and arrogance.
Shambhala
A place of refuge for all the rebels, Shambhala serves as the base for all the surviving population, eagerly waiting for change in the world out there. The architecture of the place is still echoing the old values that are now forgotten.
There is an old tree in Shambhala which serves as the focal point of the whole city. It has become a gathering place for discussions. The ending fighting sequence takes place in Shambhala as people from the complex come to know about Sumati’s location. People engage themselves in a stressful battle. All the men and women are fighting to protect Sumati.
Ashwathama gives in with his full strength, giving his all to protect her from the people of the complex and Bhairava. It is Bhairava, however Bhairava, who saves her from getting kidnapped by the general of the complex.
Fighting Sequence
[Throughout the movie, we can see some action-packed fighting scenes with dramatic entries of the actors. From Bhairava’s fighting off the bounty hunters to fighting the adage Ashwathama all the scenes have their significance. The valour and strength of Ashwathama (Amitabh Bachan) are commendable, protecting Sumati (Deepika Padukone) as the god almighty is residing in her womb from the guards of the complex. Making sure that no one can hurt her or the child. He assigns himself as her bodyguard, it is a way for his repentance against the heinous crime he committed in the previous guy.
The long overdue duel between Ashwathama and Bhairava in the ending scene is what truly gives justice to the movie, revealing the true power and identity of each character. In the end, Ashwathama realises that Sumati is safe with Bhairava as he is the incarnation of his friend Karna, he gives up the fight and feels assured that the unborn child is safe. However, unaware of this crucial secret, Bhairava is yet to be the perfect man.
Overall, the movie keeps you enraptured with the details in every scene and the comic timing between the actors is also fun to watch. One thing we must appreciate is the risk the director took to blend technology with Hindu mythology is admirable, delivering a perfect balance between the both.
