As Rohit Shetty gears up for the release of “Singham Again,” expectations are soaring for what promises to be the grandest installment yet in the celebrated “Singham” franchise. What adds a layer of intrigue this time around is Shetty’s bold choice to base the storyline on one of India’s most revered epics, the “Ramayana.” This age-old story of virtue triumphing over vice has long sparked the imagination of filmmakers, and “Singham Again” is merely the latest in a series of films rooted in this mythological saga.
Set to release on November 1, “Singham Again” stands out not only for its high-octane action sequences and the cadre of celebrated actors but also for its rich narrative, derived from the “Ramayana.” The film’s imminent debut begs a moment to reflect on other cinematic works that have harnessed the power of this epic for their storytelling. To better appreciate Shetty’s latest endeavor, let’s explore five other films that drew inspiration from the age-old “Ramayana.”
First on our list is Sooraj Barjatya’s “Hum Saath Saath Hain,” a beloved classic that resonates even today with audiences of all ages. The film mirrors the “Ramayana” through its portrayal of three brothers bound by profound familial affection, reminiscent of Lord Ram’s exile to ensure the younger brother ascends the throne. This emotional narrative struck a chord, making “Hum Saath Saath Hain” a cherished example of storytelling drawn from mythological motifs.
Next up is “Raavan,” directed by the visionary Mani Ratnam. This film offers a modern-day exploration of the age-old tale, specifically focusing on the abduction of Sita by Raavan. With Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan at the helm, “Raavan” delves into themes of good versus evil from a fresh perspective. This resonates strongly with viewers familiar with ethereal battle themes central to the “Ramayana.”
Moving on, SS Rajamouli’s “RRR” has carved a niche in recent memory as one of the monumental hits of 2022. Its characters move through arcs and events seemingly plucked from the “Ramayana,” albeit reimagined. Instances such as the kidnapping of the character Malli and the symbolic burning of the governor’s mansion serve as significant callbacks, drawing parallels to iconic events from the epic.
. With a renowned cast that includes Jr NTR, Ram Charan, and Alia Bhatt, “RRR” had audiences on the edge of their seats and firmly bridged the familiar with the fantastical.
Another notable film drawing from these ancient narratives is Anil Sharma’s “Gadar: Ek Prem Katha.” Actor Sunny Deol embarks on a journey echoing that of Ram’s excursion to Lanka to rescue Sita. Tara Singh’s mission to reclaim his love, Sakeena, from Pakistan parallels Ram’s trials and tribulations, imbuing “Gadar” with a mythological depth that heightens its storytelling.
Finally, in 2023, Om Raut’s interpretation of “Adipurush” made its entry into cinemas amid rife anticipation. Rooted in the timeless legend of Ram’s confrontation with the demon king Ravana following the abduction of Sita, “Adipurush” sought to imbue the epic narrative with breathtaking visual effects. Unfortunately, despite the buzz, the film experienced mixed reviews upon its release, captivating audiences while at the same time drawing criticism.
“Singham Again” positions itself to be not just another high-octane action film but a cinematic journey intertwining modernity with tradition. Part of its allure lies in an ensemble cast graced by the likes of Kareena Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, Tiger Shroff, and the evergreen Ajay Devgn. In addition, veteran actors Akshay Kumar and Jackie Shroff add heft to the cast. Adding further excitement is the cameo by Salman Khan as the ever-popular Chulbul Pandey, ensuring that “Singham Again” will be a talked-about release in 2023.
Overshadowed by the narrative homage to the “Ramayana,” the film also presents audiences with a box office clash. Rohit Shetty’s ambitious project will vie for attention amidst the simultaneous release of Kartik Aaryan’s “Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3,” marking a significant moment in the cinematic landscape.
In the wave of excitement and anticipation, “Singham Again” reminds us of the enduring legacy of the “Ramayana” and its boundless capacity to inspire storytellers. As audiences flock to theaters on November 1, the hope is that Rohit Shetty’s latest cop drama captures the essence of this epic saga, inviting both admiration and nostalgia.
