RRR (2022) has shown us that V Vijayendra Prasad has a knack for larger-than-life historical dramas. Now, the veteran writer has penned a script on Maharana Pratap, the 16th century king of Mewar. In his last discussion on the subject with mid-day, Prasad had said that Hrithik Roshan, Prabhas and Ranbir Kapoor were his choices to portray the king (‘Prabhas, Hrithik or Ranbir can play the part’, Jan 2, 2024). But the writer appears to have had a new thought. Having loved Vicky Kaushal’s performance as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in Chhaava, he is keen that the actor lead his period piece.

“Vicky Kaushal was excellent in Chhaava. While Hrithik, Prabhas and Ranbir are very good for the role of Maharana Pratap, after Chhaava, Vicky is in the same league as them. He is perfect for the role of Maharana Pratap. He is tall and strong, and will be able to carry the weaponry well,” says the famed screenwriter. Legend has it that the Mewar king carried two swords that weighed about 25 kilos each. Through the drama, Prasad wants to highlight the king’s bravery and honesty. He says, “Sometimes, our movies portray our warriors in a shabby way; they don’t show their glory but a good attempt has been made with Chhaava.”