The much-anticipated pre-release event for the sci-fi epic Kalki 2898 AD took place in Mumbai on Wednesday, drawing considerable attention from the media and fans. The event, attended by the film’s director Nag Ashwin and its star-studded cast, offered a tantalizing glimpse into the world of Kalki ahead of its release on June 27.
The event was graced by leading stars, including Prabhas and Deepika Padukone. Prabhas’ immense popularity was palpable, and Deepika Padukone’s baby bump garnered significant media attention. However, it was Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan who stole the spotlight with a heartwarming gesture.
As veteran producer C Aswani Dutt took the stage, Amitabh Bachchan, already present, paid homage by bending down to touch Dutt’s feet, honoring his immense contributions to Indian cinema. In a touching reversal, Dutt, who is nine years junior to Bachchan, reciprocated the respect by attempting to touch the megastar’s feet.
C Aswani Dutt, the powerhouse behind Vyjayanthi Movies, has been a pivotal figure in Indian filmmaking for over five decades. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Dutt’s illustrious career, during which he has produced over 40 films and collaborated with a galaxy of superstars. His production house is financing Kalki 2898 AD, touted as the most expensive Indian film ever made.
Dutt’s career boasts collaborations with iconic actors across the Indian film industry, including NT Rama Rao, Chiranjeevi, Rajinikanth, and Dharmendra, among many others. He has been instrumental in elevating several stars to superstardom by producing their breakthrough films. Landmark movies such as Jagadeka Veerudu Athiloka Sundari, Rajakumarudu, Company, and Sita Ramam underscore his legacy of 20 superhits.
Directed by Nag Ashwin, who is also Dutt’s son-in-law, Kalki 2898 AD is set to be a cinematic milestone. The film features an ensemble cast including Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Deepika Padukone, Shobhana, and Disha Patani. The grandeur and ambition of this project reflect Dutt’s unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of Indian cinema.
