Filmmaker SS Rajamouli drew inspiration from Ridley Scott’s epic Gladiator (2000) for his acclaimed Baahubali series. Known for its grand scale and epic storytelling, Gladiator played a great role in shaping Rajamouli’s vision of a heroic tale filled with intense battles, larger-than-life characters, and complex emotional undertones.
According to sources, “Gladiator’s themes of honour, revenge, and heroism greatly influenced Rajamouli Garu, shaping Baahubali’s storytelling and visuals. This influencer, I think, added layers of depth to Baahubali, elevating it as one of Indian cinema’s most unforgettable films”
Both the projects share several thematic and narrative elements. The films have heroic protagonists with royal connections, themes of strength and honour, power struggle and betrayal, and political intrigue. Rajamouli’s homage to Gladiator highlights the universal power of storytelling that transcends borders, inspiring creators and captivating the audience worldwide.
