To create the world of the historical drama, Prithviraj, Yash Raj Films, Aditya Chopra, and writer/director Dr. Chandraprakash Dwivedi went to great lengths to ensure that every detail be it the story, the set, and especially the costumes, was thoroughly researched and authentically created for this epic tale.
Starring Akshay Kumar, Prithviraj is based on the life and valour of the fearless and mighty King Prithviraj Chauhan, the legendary warrior who fought valiantly to protect India from the merciless invader Muhammad of Ghor.
Given the grand scale that the makers wanted to achieve, it is no surprise that the film over 50,000 costumes handmade; yes, you read that right, 50,000 and also created 500 different types of turbans during the shoot!
The film’s director, Dr. Chandraprakash Dwivedi, says, “Detailing was key to making a film like Prithviraj. Like for example, 500 different turbans were created for the film. All these were authentic replication of the kinds of turbans worn by kings, masses, people of various professions at that time. We had an expert on turban styling on the set who would oversee the process of these turbans being worn by our actors.”
He adds, “Over 50,000 costumes were handmade for the film by a costume designer who, along with his team, was specially flown in from Rajasthan to stay in Mumbai and make these costumes from scratch. I’m glad I had a producer like Aditya Chopra who believed in my vision for the film and backed me completely to tell a story like this in the grandest way possible.”
Akshay Kumar says, “Rarely do films take this much effort and embark upon such monumental tasks. Every element of our film, which is based on the life of Samrat Prithviraj Chauhan, has been dealt with utmost sincerity, authenticity, and reverence. We have paid attention to the minutest details while making the film because we wanted this to be the most glorious retelling of Samrat Prithviraj’s life on the big screen.”
Prithviraj has been directed by Dr. Chandraprakash Dwivedi, who is best known for directing the television epic Chanakya and the critically acclaimed film Pinjar. Making her debut in the movie is Manushi Chhillar, who plays the role of King Prithviraj’s beloved Sanyogita. Prithviraj also stars Sanjay Dutt, Sonu Sood, Manav Vin, Ashutosh Rana, Sakshi Tanwar, and a cast of thousands.
To get an idea of the epic scale of this film, check out the song ‘Hari Har’, with music by Shankar, Ehsaan and Loy sung by Adarsh Shinde.
Prithviraj releases on June 3rd.
