RRR director SS Rajamouli distinguishes Hinduism and Hindu dharma

SS Rajamouli's RRR has been making headlines ever since it was released in theatres. Positive reviews came in from all around the world for the pre-Indian independence fiction that was based on the lives of two Telugu freedom warriors.

The movie was still able to enter the Academy Awards, even after being turned down as India's official entry for the Oscars in 2023.

SS Rajamouli is in Los Angeles for an award campaign and is reportedly doing everything in his ability to promote RRR.

Rajamouli gave a lengthy speech on his ambitious project and was forthright about how Hinduism was portrayed in it, at the event.

He was speaking at Beyond Fest, where he emphasised the distinction between Hinduism the religion and Hindu dharma, according to a report by Indian Express.

Rajamouli said, “Hinduism is often referred to as a religion, which it now is. Nevertheless, it is a philosophy and a way of life. I am not a Hindu if you judge me by my religion, but if you judge me by my adherence to the dharma; then yes, I am a Hindu. It is a way of life that has persisted for countless ages that I am depicting in the movie.”

Speculation about RRR entering the race for Oscars 2023 picked up steam again after the international magazine Variety featured the film in its list of potential nominees.

Speaking at the Toronto International Film Festival, Rajamouli said he had not expected the film to do so well among the western audience.

RRR, one of the most successful Indian films of 2022, minted over Rs 1,200 crore at the box office worldwide.

The Hindi version of the film started streaming on Netflix after its theatrical success, with it becoming the “most popular film from India” on the streaming platform globally.

One of the reasons RRR became a rage was the on-screen friendship between NTR and Ram Charan.

“In addition to their stardom and acting abilities, their camaraderie was an asset,” Rajamouli told, adding, “Charan does not display overt emotion and accepts both positive and negative news with grace. NTR is a dynamo, and Bheem in the story is a man who doesn't hold back his feelings. That also determined why I thought they were suitable for their roles.”

RRR was released on more than 6000 screens worldwide on 25 March 2022. The supporting cast includes Ajay Devgn, Olivia Morris, Alia Bhatt, and Samuthirakani, among others.