03 April,2026 03:53 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Rana Daggubati
Actor Rana Daggubati recently opened up about the immense physical and mental strain he experienced while working on the Baahubali franchise, describing it as one of the most demanding phases of his career. The actor, who played the powerful antagonist Bhallaladeva, revealed that the scale and ambition of the project pushed everyone involved to their limits.
Directed by S. S. Rajamouli, the Baahubali films redefined Indian cinema with their grand storytelling, elaborate action sequences, and groundbreaking visuals. However, behind the spectacle was a long and challenging journey that tested the endurance of the cast and crew over several years.
Reflecting on the experience, Rana shared that it is difficult to single out one particular scene that was the most exhausting because nearly every sequence demanded intense effort. He said, "We shot that for like six years or something. So most of those were like that." His statement highlights the prolonged and physically taxing nature of the shoot, which required sustained commitment from everyone involved.
He further explained that the team was venturing into relatively uncharted territory while making the film. "It's not about one scene because, at that point, we were discovering how to make that film as well," he said, emphasizing the experimental nature of the process. Unlike typical productions, the team had limited references for large-scale war sequences and advanced visual effects at the time.
Rana also credited the vision of Rajamouli for steering the project through its challenges. According to him, the film required a filmmaker who could bring together a massive team and push boundaries to achieve something unprecedented. "It was pushing everyone's boundaries. It needed a master like Rajamouli and a team that came together for that vision," he added.
The franchise, which also starred Prabhas in the lead role, went on to become a cultural phenomenon and a benchmark for large-scale filmmaking in India. Despite the toll it took, Rana acknowledged that the experience was transformative and career-defining.
Looking back, the actor noted that such long and demanding projects are rare, as sustaining that level of intensity over years is not easy. Yet, the challenges ultimately contributed to the film's monumental success and lasting legacy.
Today, Baahubali remains a landmark achievement, not just for its box office success but also for the dedication and perseverance of the team that brought its epic vision to life.
