Latest news with #DeepikaPadukone
India.com
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- India.com
One Year of Kalki 2898 AD: How the movie redefined Indian sci-fi and cinema's global ambitions
A year ago, a myth met a machine and Indian cinema changed forever. On June 27, 2024, Kalki 2898 AD stormed theatres like a cinematic avatar brimming with ambition. Today, on its first anniversary, we revisit the film that became a rare phenomenon as Indian cinema didn't just catch up to global standards — it set some of its own. Combining Mahabharata-grade myth with Star Wars-level spectacle, Kalki 2898 AD emerged as a landmark moment: a Rs 1,000-crore wonder that dared to dream of the future through the lens of ancient legend. From a cursed Ashwatthama to a dystopian Kashi, from glowing scimitars to flying fortresses, this was an audacious act of genre-bending worldbuilding. Mahabharata meets Star Wars Set 6,000 years after the Mahabharata war, the film spins a wild but compelling hypothesis — what if Lord Vishnu's final avatar, Kalki, was yet to be born? What if his arrival was prophesied in a future ruled by a tyrant who exploits women for a high-tech birth experiment? From Amitabh Bachchan's brooding Ashwatthama, wandering Earth for redemption, to Deepika Padukone's mysterious mother-to-be carrying a divine child, to Kamal Haasan's chilling portrayal of the god-king Supreme Yaskin, Kalki wove a web of gods, rebels, labs, and lore with jaw-dropping ambition. And in the middle of it all, Prabhas, the messianic hero navigates faith, fate, and futuristic warfare. Director Nag Ashwin called it 'Mahabharata meets Star Wars,' turbocharged with temple tech and AI chariots. From Comic-Con to cinematic canon Before the film's release, it made history at San Diego Comic-Con 2023, becoming the first Indian movie ever to be featured in the legendary Hall H. Drummers pounded. Fans cheered. Prabhas, Deepika, Kamal Haasan, and Nag Ashwin stood shoulder-to-shoulder with global legends, delivering Indian cinema's most direct handshake with the West. Kalki 2898 AD's visuals that shook the screens A still of Deepika Padukone from Kalki 2898 AD Critics couldn't look away. Packed with neon haze, dusty chaos and saber-swinging swagger, Kalki 2898 AD brought a distinctly Indian twist to its sci-fi elements. The reviewers raved about its 'cinematic maximalism' and its 'Indofuturist aesthetic'. Across screens — standard, IMAX, and 3D — the film dazzled with scenes of gravity-defying pyramids, robotic sidekicks, and mandala-coded force fields. Kalki 2898 AD's box office was on fire Kalki 2898 AD walked the box office like a god among men with a net collection of ₹615 crore in India and an astronomical ₹1,030 crore+ worldwide. Standing tall as 2024's top Indian blockbusters, it is only the 7th Indian film to cross the ₹1,000 crore milestone. Made on a massive ₹600 crore budget, it became the most expensive Indian film ever produced and justified every rupee with global returns. India's sci-fi goes global Surpassing Hrithik Roshan's Fighter, Kalki 2898 AD becomes the biggest Hindi opener of 2024 Global critics marvelled at its scale, vision, and genre-bending boldness. One international review called it 'a wild, maximalist sci-fi hoot that dares to imagine the Mahabharata in space' and 'a game-changer for Indian VFX'. Kalki 2898 AD has left more than just sand trails and scorched skies. It opened doors of genre fusion with its mytho-sci-fi blend that has inspired multiple studios to explore Indian epics in new-age formats. Through Indofuturism, the film coined a visual grammar where tradition meets tech. It stoked hopes for a franchise with fans eagerly awaiting Part 2, teased in the closing moments. And if this was just the beginning, the avatar of tomorrow is only getting started.
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First Post
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- First Post
1-year of an extraordinary coincidence: Deepika Padukone bringing motherhood on and off screen at the same time in Kalki 2898 AD will stay special
Deepika Padukone is truly one of India's leading actresses, known for bringing depth, grace, and a unique charm to every role she takes on. Over the years, with her consistent performances and box office successes, she has rightfully earned the title of Bollywood's box office queen. Among her many memorable films, director Nag Ashwin's Kalki 2898 AD, which was released a year ago today, stands out as a true milestone. Starring alongside Amitabh Bachchan and Prabhas, Deepika didn't just hold her own; she became the heart of the story. Her character was its soul, and her performance was widely hailed as one of her finest. With raw emotion and quiet strength, she left a lasting impact on audiences everywhere. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Deepika Padukone brought life and raw emotion to her role as a pregnant woman in Kalki 2898 AD, portraying a mother chosen by destiny. She nailed every single frame with quiet strength and grace. But the moment that truly etched itself into cinematic history was her 'walking through fire' scene. More than just a visual spectacle, it became one of the most iconic scenes in Indian cinema. Deepika's character walks through a tunnel of fire — a powerful, symbolic moment representing sacrifice, rebirth, and divine purpose. Carrying the unborn child believed to be the prophesied Kalki, she embraces her destiny. The emotional weight and visual impact of that scene made it unforgettable — and one of Deepika's finest moments ever. Not many know that Deepika Padukone was pregnant in real life while filming the emotional climax of Kalki 2898 AD, a powerful coincidence, as she also plays a pregnant woman in the film. This real-life parallel made her performance feel even more genuine and soul-stirring. It became one of the best shots of the film. She gave the role everything she had, and it showed. Her portrayal connected deeply with audiences, becoming one of the standout elements of the film. Kalki 2898 AD went on to become a massive blockbuster, and fans agree — no one could've played the role better. Now, everyone's eagerly waiting for her return in the sequel.
Hans India
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Reclaiming the classics: Celebrity-inspired saree looks for your wedding wardrobe
Silk sarees have long held a place of pride in Indian fashion, celebrated for their rich textures, intricate craftsmanship, and timeless elegance. Their enduring appeal has also captivated Bollywood's leading ladies, who continue to embrace this traditional drape across red carpets, festive celebrations, and intimate ceremonies. From the grandeur of classic Kanjeevarams to contemporary silk interpretations, these divas have proven that a silk saree isn't just a garment—it's a style essential that transcends trends and generations. Whether you're drawn to the timeless allure of Deepika Padukone's traditional silks or the understated charm of pastel elegance, At Mysore Saree Udyog offers an exquisite range of handwoven and designer sarees that let you recreate these iconic styles with ease. Let your wedding wardrobe shine with the richness of tradition and the elegance of star-studded inspiration The Deepika-Inspired Kanjeevaram Classic A bold red or deep maroon Kanjeevaram saree with intricate gold zari work is the epitome of bridal grandeur. Timeless and rooted in tradition, this saree exudes a majestic charm that makes it perfect for the main wedding ceremony. When paired with antique temple jewelry, thick layered gold necklaces, jhumkas, and vanki armlets, it creates a look that's both regal and deeply cultural. Samantha's Red Banarasi Grace Recreate a traditional South Indian bridal moment with a rich red Banarasi saree that showcases intricate gold weaving and timeless craftsmanship. Known for its luxurious texture and ornate patterns, the Banarasi saree lends itself beautifully to ceremonial grandeur. This look is all about embracing heritage, pair the saree with layers of classic gold jewelry, including a statement choker, maang tikka, and waist belt. Finish the ensemble with bold kohl-rimmed eyes, a bright bindi, and neatly braided hair embellished with fresh jasmine flowers for a bridal look that's rooted in tradition yet effortlessly elegant. Tara's Pastel Party Saree Go for a pastel-toned georgette or shimmer saree with delicate sequin highlights to bring effortless glam to your reception or sangeet night. Light, flowy, and easy to drape, these sarees strike the perfect balance between elegance and sparkle. Shades like blush pink, mint green, or champagne gold catch the light beautifully as you dance the night away. Pair with sleek diamond jewelry, soft curls, and a glossy lip for a refined yet youthful look that channels celebrity-inspired charm with a contemporary twist. These celebrity-inspired sarees blend timeless tradition with modern elegance, perfect for your big day and beyond. With Mysore Saree Udyog's curated collection, you're not just choosing a trend, but a piece that will never go out of style and stay memorable in your wardrobe for life.
South China Morning Post
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- South China Morning Post
How to style like Bollywood power couples Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh, and Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor – with accessories from Dior, Versace, Gucci and Christian Louboutin
Bollywood actresses Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt are just two of many Indian film stars who like to dress to impress, and their actor husbands are no slouches either. Padukone married Ranveer Singh on Italy's Lake Como in 2018, while Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor tied the knot in Mumbai in 2022. Both women are ambassadors for luxury European fashion houses, so it came as no surprise when Padukone stunned in a monochrome look – complete with leather gloves and a statement hat – at Louis Vuitton's autumn/winter 2025 womenswear show during Paris Fashion Week earlier this year. Back in March 2024, Bhatt also slayed in a chic black Gucci suit at one of the Italian brand's events in Mumbai. Read on for tips on how to channel fashion sense of the starry couples. 1. Ranbir Kapoor Opt for vibrantly hued formalwear and versatile staples such as these Dior sunglasses and Christian Louboutin loafers. Advertisement Dior sunglasses (approx US$585) Christian Louboutin loafers (approx US$1,005) 2. Alia Bhatt Anchor your look with finely crafted tailoring, then elevate the drama with statement accessories: try this blazer by Versace at Net-a-Porter and a Gucci bag. Blazer (approx US$2,550) by Versace at Net-a-Porter Gucci bag (approx US$3,695) 3. Ranveer Singh Invest in casual separates for a cool feel, elevated with a careful choice of accessories, like this jacket by Mr P. at Mr Porter and Versace sunglasses.
News18
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
5 Bollywood Rom-Coms You Should Revisit This Summer
Break Ke Baad The plot follows Aaliya (Deepika Padukone), who is not ready to commit to her decade-long best friend Abhay (Imran Khan). She even remains indifferent when he follows her to Australia but is only shaken and decides to come to her senses when he announces his wedding.
