OPINION: Does SS Rajamouli’s post-movie curse actually exist, or is it just a popular internet myth resulting from coincidences?

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OPINION: Does SS Rajamouli's post-movie curse actually exist, or is it just a popular internet myth resulting from coincidences?

As a lifestyle expert with a rich background in cinema, I can confidently say that SS Rajamouli is undoubtedly one of the most influential directors in Indian film history. His ability to consistently churn out blockbusters has cemented his status as a living legend in the industry. However, it’s important to address the popular myth surrounding his movies and the supposed “curse” on actors who work with him.

SS Rajamouli is undeniably well-known among cinema enthusiasts of Indian films, earning him the status as one of the contemporary legends in filmmaking. With 12 movies under his belt thus far, he has consistently delivered box office hits, making an indelible mark on the Indian cinematic landscape.

One way to rephrase the given text could be: “The director well-known for working with celebrities such as Prabhas, Ram Charan, Jr NTR, among others, has also been associated with a widely spread story on the internet. This tale, though lacking logical basis, is frequently referred to as the ‘SS Rajamouli post-movie curse.’ Can you explain what this popular myth is and why people believe in such superstition?

What is the popular myth on the internet linked to SS Rajamouli?

If you haven’t heard yet, there’s a widely-spread belief among online communities that actors who take on lead roles in SS Rajamouli’s films will subsequently face failures in their future movies, particularly financially at the box office.

In 2001, the roots of a widely known tale can be traced back to when the director first stepped into Telugu cinema with the hit film Student No.1. This movie showcased a blend of growing-up romance and action, inspired by a story by Pruthvi Teja and written by the director-producer K Raghavendra Rao.

2001 was a year I’ll never forget, as it saw the release of a film that took the Telugu cinema world by storm – a massive hit that even went on to become one of the most successful films of the year. And yet, in the same year, Jr NTR’s next project, Subbu, under the direction of Rudraraju Suresh Varma, hit the screens. Riding high on the success wave generated by Student No.1, I had such high hopes for this movie. Alas, it failed to captivate audiences at the box office and left me yearning for more of Jr NTR’s magic on screen.

In the future, SS Rajamouli took charge of the project titled Simhadri. This action-packed film brought back Jr NTR as the main character. Notably, Vijayendra Prasad, the director’s father, wrote the story for this production.

In 2003, the movie was another huge success at the box office, earning widespread acclaim for its compelling storyline and direction. Interestingly, in the subsequent year, Junior NTR also experienced a box office flop after the release of the Rajamouli film titled Andhrawala.

The film “Andhrawala,” directed by Puri Jagannadh, was an action-packed production that notably featured the actor in a double role for the first time. Despite boasting a robust cast and crew, and the anticipation stirred up by the triumph of “Simhadri,” the film unfortunately flopped at the box office.

With SS Rajamouli’s films, the trend persisted. His subsequent movie, Sye featuring Nithiin, was a successful sports-action film. However, the following film starring Nithiin, Allari Bullodu, did not fare well.

Next up, in 2005, SS Rajamouli and Prabhas collaborated for the first time on the hit film Chatrapathi. This critically acclaimed film is considered a turning point in Prabhas’s career, but was followed by Pournami, a movie directed by Prabhu Deva that unfortunately did not succeed.

Check out a song from Prabhas’ Chatrapathi:

The more and more these myths were linked to coincidences, the stronger they became and even spread to other performers. Meanwhile, as Ravi Teja’s Vikramarkudu created a stir in cinemas, his subsequent film, Khatarnak, was a box office disappointment. Similarly, Jr NTR’s Yamadonga was followed by the flop movie named Kantri.

2009 saw Ram Charan’s movie Magadheera regaining its status as a box office hit, yet his subsequent film Orange ended up being a commercial flop but eventually gained a devoted following over time. Similar patterns were observed in the careers of actors like Sunil (Maryada Ramanna) and Prabhas post their Baahubali series, and even Ram Charan after RRR, who experienced a significant box office disappointment with Acharya.

Check out RRR trailer ft Ram Charan and Jr NTR:

Is there any solid basis for this legend or is it merely an exaggerated story concocted online, heavily influenced by superstitions?

Is there any valid truth to the myth of SS Rajamouli’s post-movie curse?

As a devoted admirer, I feel compelled to clarify that the so-called “curse” circulating online lacks any substantial evidence or factual basis. It’s merely a superstition, not grounded in reality.

Many people are aware that actors in SS Rajamouli films often need to dedicate several years of their lives to embodying his characters, which creates a heroic image but also sets them apart from their fans. While this extended preparation enhances the film and its viewing experience, it can also blur the line between the actor and their persona.

In the realm created by director Rajamouli, it’s natural for the main actors to evoke similar levels of amazement and grandeur that his films are renowned for. Yet, it’s important to remember that not every movie can bear the signature style of a Rajamouli production.

Furthermore, an actor’s strong commitment to the director often makes it challenging for them to shed the character they have portrayed for a considerable period. This struggle extends to transitioning between roles during performances as well. These challenges can be understood through logic instead of supernatural beliefs.

Additionally, Nani, the main actor in Eega, experienced further career growth with the movie Yeto Vellipoyindhi Manasu directed by Gautham Vasudev Menon. This film also featured Samantha as the lead actress. However, some might contend that the housefly was the true protagonist of the story, a claim which doesn’t yield to logical rebuttal.

Moreover, when Koratala Siva’s film starring Jr NTR, titled Devara, is due to release in cinemas on September 27, 2024, it will be interesting to find out whether the trend persists or if it manages to shatter the cycle for good.

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2024-09-23 17:24