Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) – Detailed Summary
Baahubali: The Beginning, directed by S. S. Rajamouli, is an Indian epic action film that blends mythology, history, and fantasy in a grand cinematic spectacle. It is the first part of a two-part saga that tells the tale of betrayal, bravery, destiny, and royal legacy.
Prologue – The Mysterious Baby
The film begins with a powerful opening scene: a woman named Sivagami, carrying a baby in her arms, fights off soldiers while trying to cross a river. Though mortally wounded, she manages to save the baby before she drowns. The child is rescued by villagers living at the base of a massive waterfall. He is raised by Sanga and her husband as their own and is named Shivudu.
Shivudu grows up into a strong, adventurous, and curious young man. He is fascinated by the waterfall and longs to climb to the top, despite repeated failures. His adoptive parents discourage him, but he is driven by a sense of purpose he cannot explain.
Discovering a Greater Purpose
One day, Shivudu finds a wooden mask that has fallen from the waterfall’s height. It leads him to climb the massive cliff once again—this time successfully. At the top, he enters a lush and unfamiliar world. There, he meets Avantika, a fierce warrior who is part of a rebel group fighting to rescue their queen, Devasena, who is being held captive by the tyrannical king Bhallaladeva in the kingdom of Mahishmati.
Avantika is initially suspicious of Shivudu, but after witnessing his strength and determination, she begins to trust—and eventually fall in love with—him. When Shivudu learns about Devasena’s imprisonment, he offers to go in Avantika’s place and rescue her.
Entering Mahishmati
Disguised and determined, Shivudu sneaks into Mahishmati and manages to free Devasena. During the escape, he is confronted by the royal army, and in an intense action sequence, he defeats numerous soldiers. His skills and bravery astonish the people of Mahishmati.
When he finally comes face to face with Kattappa, the loyal commander of the royal guard, something incredible happens—Kattappa drops his weapon and kneels before Shivudu, calling him Baahubali.
This moment shocks everyone, including Shivudu, who is unaware of his true identity. The story then shifts into a massive flashback that reveals the origins of Baahubali and the kingdom’s history.
The Flashback – Rise of the Real Baahubali
In the past, the kingdom of Mahishmati was ruled by Queen Sivagami, who raised two princes: Amarendra Baahubali and Bhallaladeva. Both were strong and brave, but while Baahubali was compassionate and beloved by the people, Bhallaladeva was ruthless and power-hungry.
As the kingdom faces an invasion by a savage warlord named Kalakeya, Sivagami declares that whoever leads the army to victory and proves worthy will be crowned the next king. The film then showcases an epic war sequence where both princes fight side by side.
Despite Bhallaladeva’s raw power, it is Baahubali’s leadership, courage, and clever strategy that ultimately win the war. Impressed by his character and virtues, Sivagami chooses Baahubali as the heir to the throne, much to Bhallaladeva’s jealousy.
The flashback ends here, leaving viewers with many questions about how Baahubali died, how Bhallaladeva seized the throne, and why Kattappa, his most loyal ally, would later betray him.
Ending – The Big Reveal
Back in the present timeline, it is revealed that Shivudu is none other than Mahendra Baahubali, the son of Amarendra Baahubali. As the rebels and the people of Mahishmati start to recognize him, a new hope is born—the return of the true heir to the kingdom.
The film ends with a dramatic cliffhanger, where Shivudu asks Kattappa the burning question:
“Why did you kill Baahubali?”
The screen fades to black, setting up the highly anticipated sequel: Baahubali: The Conclusion.
Themes and Messages
Baahubali: The Beginning is more than just a historical action film. It explores themes such as:
- Destiny and legacy – Shivudu’s journey from a village boy to a prince shows the power of fate and identity.
- Good vs. Evil – The contrast between Baahubali’s kindness and Bhallaladeva’s cruelty highlights moral leadership.
- Sacrifice and loyalty – Kattappa’s character brings a powerful emotional depth, showing the struggle between duty and honor.
- Empowerment and courage – Characters like Avantika and Sivagami show strong female leadership in a male-dominated world.
Final Thoughts
Baahubali: The Beginning is a visually spectacular film, known for its grand sets, powerful performances (especially by Prabhas, Rana Daggubati, Anushka Shetty, Tamannaah, and Sathyaraj), and epic storytelling. It successfully mixes mythology, fantasy, and emotion into an unforgettable cinematic experience.
With a thrilling plot, breathtaking action, and a shocking cliffhanger, it left audiences across the world eagerly waiting for the next chapter in the Baahubali saga.
Rating: 9/10