iDreamPost

Kalki 2898 AD: An analysis of Bhairava

  • Published Jul 07, 2024 | 4:39 PMUpdated Jul 07, 2024 | 4:39 PM
  • Published Jul 07, 2024 | 4:39 PMUpdated Jul 07, 2024 | 4:39 PM
Kalki 2898 AD: An analysis of Bhairava

Indian cinema recently introduced a new cinematic universe of Kalki 2898 AD. Director Nag Ashwin and his crew delighted audiences by producing a captivating science fiction movie inspired by ancient Indian history, particularly the epic Mahabharata. Telugu superstar Prabhas portrayed the character Bhairava in the film alongside Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, and Kamal Haasan in other significant roles. Prabhas’ exceptional performance left a lasting impression on viewers, hinting at a more prominent role for the actor in the forthcoming sequel. The exciting premise and world around Bhairava prompted us to make a spoiler-filled character analysis.

Prabhas’ character Bhairava is depicted as a formidable warrior in the epic sci-fi film. He is renowned for his physical strength and is revered as a hero by many. Despite his widespread fame, it is revealed that Bhairava is not the righteous man he is believed to be. He openly admits to being selfish and prioritizing his own interests. Interestingly, his only emotional connection is with his intelligent robot Bujji (voiced by Keerthy Suresh), who lacks a physical form but serves as a voice of reason for Bhairava, keeping him grounded. According to Bhairava, he was abandoned as a baby in a war zone, where Captain Dulquer Salmaan discovered him. The Captain’s influence on Bhairava’s life is profound. He raised him, educated him in various skills, and instilled in him a sense of self-centeredness suitable for contemporary society. Nevertheless, when Bhairava recounts his past, Bujji cautions the audience that he alters his backstory regularly. This clue suggests a more profound and more complex history behind Bhairava’s origins and the Captain’s influence on his life than what has been disclosed.

The initial part of Kalki 2898 AD suggests that Bhairava might embody Kaal Bhairav, the deity mounted on his loyal dog and protecting Kashi. The dramatic scene where Bhairava rescues a crowd from a collapsing giant wheel further supports this theory. On the other hand, the ageless Ashwatthama, portrayed by Amitabh Bachchan, envisions Bhairava as his long-lost companion Karna from the Mahabharata. This leads him to speculate that Bhairava could indeed be Karna, especially after witnessing him wield the formidable weapon associated with the legendary figure. Even though the true identity of Bhairava remains a mystery, it is plausible to anticipate that the sequel of Kalki 2898 AD will focus on his path to redemption, selflessness, and unconditional love. Bhairava is destined to aid Ashwatthama in safeguarding the unborn Kalki and his mother, Sumati (Deepika Padukone), from the clutches of Supreme Yaskin (Kamal Haasan). The upcoming installment is also set to unveil Bhairava’s mysterious origins, his biological parents, and the true identity of his foster father, Captain, who appears to defy the passage of time.