Akshay Kumar’s latest film, Prithviraj (2022), sees the actor going back in time to the 12th century to play warrior king Prithviraj Chauhan, who was known for his valour and prowess on the battlefield. The period film, directed by Dr Chandraprakash Dwivedi, sets up his clash with Sultan Mohammad Ghori, who seeks to capture Chauhan’s territory.
The film also introduces Miss World 2017 Manushi Chhillar who makes her big-screen debut and plays princess Sanyogita. Prithviraj looks at their courtship leading up to their nuptials, as Sanyogita supports her husband during his greatest challenge.
Every fact in Prithviraj was checked multiple times, says filmmaker Chandraprakash Dwivedi
We also get glimpses of Prithviraj’s loyal men Kaka Kanha, played by Sanjay Dutt, and Chand Vardai, played by Sonu Sood. Both are willing to lay down their lives for him.
After being named to the throne of Delhi, Chauhan faces his greatest threat as Ghori announces his intentions to take over. Prithviraj and his men assemble and prepare a plan, but who will emerge victorious?
Written by Dwivedi, the look and feel of the feature has echoes of other recent Hindi films Padmaavat (2018) and Panipat (2019), with a little bit of Ridley Scott's Gladiator (2000) thrown in, especially when Prithviraj battles lions in an arena.
Produced by Aditya Chopra, the film features a score by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy and lyrics by Varun Grover. Prithviraj, distributed by Yash Raj Films, is due to be released in theatres on 3 June.
Watch the trailer below and let us know if you are keen to see the film.