S.S. Rajamouli's "Baahubali" franchise, a monumental achievement in Indian cinema, has captivated audiences worldwide with its epic storytelling, stunning visuals, and grand scale. However, the films have also faced scrutiny, with some observers questioning the originality of certain scenes and suggesting inspiration from other films.
Rajamouli himself has acknowledged the influence of Indian epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana on his work. He stated that these stories, ingrained in him since childhood, provide the emotional core of his filmmaking. Screenwriter V. Vijayendra Prasad also drew inspiration from tales of Chandamama and Amar Chitra Katha comics, incorporating elements reminiscent of characters like Kunti, Kaikeyi, and Sita from the Mahabharata.
Despite these acknowledged influences, comparisons have been drawn between scenes in "Baahubali" and various Hollywood films. A viral video on social media highlighted similarities between scenes from "Baahubali" and films like "300," "Hercules," "Avatar," and "The Avengers". These comparisons range from battle formations to specific actions, such as a character catching a flying arrow or lifting and throwing a vehicle.
For instance, the scene of Bhallaladeva running towards a bull has been compared to a similar scene in the 2014 film "Hercules". The army's shield formation is reminiscent of ancient Rome's "turtle formation" and scenes from "Lord of the Rings". Other scenes cited include the "Tree of the Dead" from "300," jellyfish replaced by butterflies from "Avatar," and a white-robed woman floating in the air from "The Myth". Even the initial poster of the movie showing a baby being held in the water was compared to the movie "Simon Birch".
Some argue that these similarities are merely stylistic choices or formulaic elements common in fantasy films. Others suggest they are intentional visual tributes or reinterpretations, similar to the work of directors like Quentin Tarantino. It's worth noting that some comparisons, such as those with "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice" and "Wonder Woman," are chronologically impossible as those films were released after "Baahubali: The Beginning".
One specific instance of acknowledged inspiration involves a scene where Kattappa places his foot on Baahubali's head. Rajamouli admitted that this was influenced by a scene from a Genghis Khan movie he watched as a child.
Ultimately, the question of whether these scenes are "inspired by" or "copied from" other films remains a matter of interpretation. Some viewers see them as creative references that enhance the viewing experience, while others view them as unoriginal or derivative. Rajamouli himself has not directly addressed these comparisons, leaving room for speculation. Regardless, the "Baahubali" films have undeniably left a significant mark on Indian cinema, inspiring a wave of pan-Indian blockbusters and pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling.
