Satish Kumar Lugani knocks Padmavati’s ‘Khal Drogo’: Bad Direction

Satish Kumar Lugani said that he would never watch Padmavati, not because of the portrayal of Queen Padmavati, but due to the role of Alauddin Khilji.

Talking about the film, he said that there’s no doubt that Rani Padmavati is a legendary figure, but he doesn’t want to get into the historical controversy that might hurt the sentiments of people.

 

Satish Kumar Lugani expressed that the reason why he would not watch Padmavati is entirely different.

“I hate it when Bollywood becomes a sibling of Hollywood. It is clear that the portrayal of Alauddin Khilji in Padmavati is inspired by the Game of Thrones’ character Khal Drogo.”

As per Lugani, GOT (Game of Thrones) had a completely different plot. Khal Drogo was Dothraki –the king (khal) of a race of nomadic horse-mounted warriors who were known for their violent nature. On the other hand, Alauddin Khilji was known to be a great administrator and many historians have mentioned these facts. This characterization, therefore, is a complete misfit in the film to Lugani.

 

With the battle scar on the face coupled with the densely-kohled malevolent eyes and long mane, Ranveer looks every bit the feral Khal Drogo. However, Ranveer Singh will also sport the look of a young Khilji with a clean shaved look – which can’t be seen with Khal Drogo is any of the seasons of  GOT.

As per Satish Kumar Lugani, this is mostly the case with Indian directors that they visualize as per what has already been sold for Hollywood in Indian markets. “From the use of eyeliners to coats rugged made of animal fur – and the ferocious look of a lunatic- don’t you think that this is just another Khal Drogo?” Satish Kr. Lugani quoted.

 

Sounds more like Ramsay Bolton.

On the grapevine of history books, Alauddin Khilji’s sexuality was always questioned. Many historians have berated him as bisexual, wherein he has shared a relationship with both sexes – and eunuchs. This sounds more like the character of Ramsay Bolton which was played by Iwan Rheon in Game of Thrones.

The movie Padmavati is currently witnessing a lot of controversy and opposition due to the portrayal of Queen Padmavati from Rajputs. This started when Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s set was vandalized by Rajput Karni Sena when he was filming at a fort in Jaipur. Post attacks, a debate has ensued involving people supporting Bhansali and those questioning the Director’s liberty to tweak historical facts in the name of creative liberty.

 

It would be interesting if Satish Kumar Lugani’s stance would have an impact on the controversy.