As RRR commemorates its third anniversary, the epic film by director S. S. Rajamouli continues to resonate with audiences, solidifying its place in Indian cinema history. Released on March 25, 2022, RRR quickly emerged as a notable success, both at the box office and critically, achieving global recognition for its compelling storytelling and stunning visuals.
RLying on rich historical narratives, RRR centers on the legendary protagonists Komaram Bheem and Alluri Sitarama Raju, brought to life by Jr. NTR and Ram Charan, respectively. Jr. NTR, celebrating his role, expressed that his career prepared him for the character of Bheem, the strong-willed Gond tribal leader. Describing his journey to understand Bheem, Jr. NTR noted, “Everything I have done so far in my career has prepared me for this project.” Jr. NTR’s dedication throughout the filming process was evidenced by his belief that no set method for acting exists. Instead, he appreciates Rajamouli's talent in challenging him to find depth in his performances.
Reflecting on their collaboration, Jr. NTR stated, “Rajamouli as a director has always challenged me. This is my fourth collaboration with him.” He attributes his growth as an actor to the previous experiences he had while working with Rajamouli on earlier projects. It was those earlier roles, in which he felt inexperienced, that subsequently shaped him for the demands of portraying such a complex character in RRR.
Rajamouli himself praised Jr. NTR, likening their creative partnership to working with two tigers, stating, “With NTR, it felt like I was shooting with not one but two tigers.” This metaphor reflects not only the undeniable talent Jr. NTR brings to the screen but also highlights the intensity and vigor he brought to the character of Bheem. His performance in RRR has been hailed as one of the most remarkable in recent Indian cinema, catching the attention of audiences worldwide.
Moreover, RRR broke several box office records during its release. The film earned an impressive ₹223 crore on its opening day alone, marking the highest ever for an Indian film at the time. As the celebration of its success continues, RRR has grossed approximately ₹1,230 crore globally, a figure that stands as a testament to its impact and appeal across different cultures.
Further emphasizing RRR's significance is its soundtrack, particularly the song “Naatu Naatu,” which made history by winning an Academy Award for Best Original Song. This recognition marked a monumental feat as RRR became the first Indian feature film to win an Oscar, enhancing the film's global brand and further establishing its legacy.
The film tells a fictionalized story that traverses colonial India in the 1920s, depicting the struggles faced by Bheem and Raju in their quest for liberation against British oppression. The character of Bheem showcases strength and determination in the face of adversity, aiming to rescue the young Gond girl Malli from the clutches of British Governor Scott Buxton.
Riding on the triumphs of RRR, Jr. NTR is now preparing for future projects, including a much-anticipated Bollywood debut in War 2 and an upcoming collaboration with KGF’s Prashanth Neel, dubbed NTRNEEL. The seasoned actor’s commitment to evolvement and showcasing his versatility is commendable, ensuring audiences look forward to his journey beyond this cinematic milestone.
While the third anniversary may serve as a time of reflection for Jr. NTR and the team behind RRR, it also marks new beginnings and forthcoming opportunities in their careers. As fans look back fondly on the impact of RRR, they continue to celebrate its thrilling plot, breathtaking visuals, and most importantly, the performances that breathed life into these historical characters.
As RRR enters its next phase, whether audiences are re-watching the film or discovering it anew, the legacy of this cultural juggernaut is bound to endure in the world of cinema.
