Chennai buzzes with excitement as Kannada superstar Satish Ninasam unveils details of his ambitious project, ‘The Rise of Ashoka’. This cinematic venture plunges into the turbulent 1970s along the Karnataka-Tamil Nadu border, chronicling a young man’s bold stand against entrenched societal norms.
In a riveting press conference, Ninasam revealed the film’s staggering scale: over 1,000 artists brought to life its vast narrative, with shooting spanning a grueling 138 days. ‘What sets this apart is its massive cast, sprawling sets, and meticulous planning,’ he enthused. The production’s grandeur promises to transport audiences back in time.
At its core, the story follows a determined youth chasing a government job while breaking free from familial and communal traditions. ‘It’s not just one man’s fight,’ Ninasam explained. ‘It’s an inspiring tale of an entire community’s social awakening.’
Recreating the era’s rustic authenticity posed immense challenges. Modern villages boast concrete homes and paved roads, but the film revives mud huts, dirt paths, and the simple rhythms of daily life. Every detail—from costumes to expressions—has been calibrated for immersion.
Director’s ingenuity shines through 1,400 CGI-enhanced shots, seamlessly blending digital wizardry with reality. Vast flower fields expand on screen, power lines vanish artfully, all refined over six months. ‘Viewers won’t spot the effects; it’ll feel utterly real,’ Ninasam assured.
Leading lady Sapthami Gowda, known from ‘Kantara’, anchors the female lead. As post-production wraps, anticipation builds for this landmark Kannada film redefining historical drama.