If you look at director Ashutosh Gowariker’s filmography, it is clear that he is enamoured by the past. He has helmed a host of period films like Lagaan (2001), Jodhaa Akbar (2008), Khele Hum Jee Jaan Sey (2010) and Mohenjo Daro (2016).
Although his next is also a historical in the form of Panipat, it is the first time that Gowariker is trying his hand at a grand war epic. The film tells the story of the third battle of Panipat in 1761 that took place between the Marathas, led by Sadashiv Rao (Arjun Kapoor) and the king of Afghanistan, Ahmad Shah Abdali (Sanjay Dutt).
The trailer of Panipat makes it clear that its execution and presentation is way different from Gowariker’s other films. The grandeur of the sets by Nitin Desai is very much on the lines of Sanjay Leela Bhansali. No stone seems to have been left unturned in terms of the production design and costume.
Furthermore, one can’t miss the drama and the exciting background score can easily rouse the lovers of Maratha history. A lot of attention also seems to have been focused on action and stunts. But that’s not all. There are also heroic dialogues meant to induce claps, especially the last one uttered by Sadashiv at the end of the trailer.
There was always a doubt on the casting of Kapoor in such a role. Although he is decent here, we will get a clear picture only when the film releases. Kriti Sanon looks believable as Parvati Bai, Sadadhiv Rao’s wife.
The actor who appears most convincing is Dutt as Ahmad Shah Abdali. Mohnish Bahl also, surprisingly, fits in those Maratha costumes. It is good to see Padmini Kolhapure in a mainstream film after long.
One of the wittiest moments of the trailer is Parvati Bai taking a dig at Bajirao for bringing Mastani with him while he had gone for war.
Panipat is all set to release on 6 December. Watch the trailer below and let us know if you are keen to watch the film.