In the year 2896 AD, the city of Kasi stands as a monument to a futuristic yet dystopian world. Within this bleak metropolis, where the gap between the rich and poor is stark, two unusual characters embark on a journey that promises both humor and excitement. This setting forms the basis of the animated series “B&B: Bujji & Bhairava,” now streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
“B&B: Bujji & Bhairava” serves as a prelude to Nag Ashwin’s highly anticipated science fiction film “Kalki 2898 AD,” which is scheduled to release worldwide on June 27. The film, featuring an ensemble cast including Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kamal Haasan, has been in development for over four years. Unlike many spin-off animation series that are released post a successful film, as seen with the Indian animation series that followed the Baahubali films, the team behind “Kalki 2898 AD” has taken a unique approach by creating this two-episode prelude.
The setting in “B&B: Bujji & Bhairava” is one rife with societal discrepancies and a severe lack of real food, where currency is counted in units. In a rather poignant moment, a character stumbles upon a box of pineapples and exclaims about finding real food. These episodes, each slightly over 14 minutes long, set the scene for what is to come in “Kalki 2898 AD.”
The storyline unfolds two years before the main film, focusing on two central characters: Bhairava, voiced by Prabhas, and BU-JZI or Bujji, voiced by Keerthy Suresh. Bhairava is depicted as a neighborhood hero who is down on his luck but clinging to the hope of striking big. On the other hand, Bujji, the AI pilot of a cargo ship, is eager to get a promotion after completing her 100th mission, a goal that would win her entry into ‘The Complex,’ a place symbolizing privilege. Their paths cross, leading to an unlikely partnership filled with humor and unexpected twists, making “B&B” a refreshing take on science fiction animation.
Adding to the series’ charm is the appearance of an animated version of legendary actor Brahmanandam.
. His interactions with Bhairava are particularly noteworthy and stand out as a highlight of the series. The episodes are rich in pop culture references, from the recent film “Jathi Ratnalu” to iconic dialogues from Chiranjeevi and classic melodies. References to Brahmanandam’s own humorous exchanges in previous blockbusters also make appearances, adding layers of enjoyment for fans.
Beneath its humorous exterior, the series does a commendable job of immersing viewers into the dystopian world of Kasi. The animation, a product of Nag Ashwin’s collaboration with Green Gold Animation, vividly brings to life the sprawling scrapyards and the innovative, albeit crude, robotic machines built from discarded materials. This rich visual landscape coupled with an engaging storyline creates an instantly captivating viewing experience.
The series has generated considerable buzz, evidence of which was seen a few days ago when Vyjayanthi Films unveiled the custom-made car ‘Bujji’ amid nearly 20,000 fans at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad. This car, powered by Bujji, offers a glimpse into the inventiveness of Bhairava and hints at the ingenuity viewers can expect in the upcoming film.
In this prelude, we get our first glimpse of several other characters, including one portrayed by Pasupathy. This initial taste sets high expectations for the film’s release, laying a solid foundation for the narrative that is to follow.
Fans of all ages will find something to delight in with “B&B: Bujji & Bhairava.” Not only does it promise a good laugh, but it also teases the grandeur of “Kalki 2898 AD,” ensuring its place as a must-watch. The series is set to continue with two more episodes that will be released following the theatrical debut of “Kalki 2898 AD,” keeping the audience eagerly waiting.
“B&B: Bujji & Bhairava” is available for streaming in Telugu, Hindi, and Spanish on Amazon Prime Video, offering an engaging start to the ambitious world-building venture of “Kalki 2898 AD.”
