DYK Indian Costliest Film Was Shelved Due to International Politics

Indian Costliest Film: In 1997, Indian cinema embarked on an ambitious project titled Marudhanayagam. The acclaimed actor Kamal Haasan directed and produced the film.

The film aims to depict the life of 18th-century warrior Muhammed Yusuf Khan, also known as Marudhanayagam Pillai.

Despite its grand vision and potential, the film remains incomplete. This lefy many to wonder about its journey and the reasons behind its shelving.

How It Was Started?

After releasing Gunaa in 1991, Kamal Haasan aspired to create a historical film. The folk ballad Khan Saibu Sandai (The War of Khan Sahib) caught his interest and introduced him to Muhammed Yusuf Khan.

Recognizing the cinematic potential of Khan’s life, Kamal Haasam along with writer Sujatha delved into extensive research. They spent four years developing the script.

Budget For the Film

Marudhanayagam was poised to be India’s most expensive film at the time.

It is expected to be with a projected budget of ₹85 crore in 1997. Adjusting for inflation, this amount would exceed ₹600 crore today. The film’s scale was unparalleled involving collaborations with Indian, French and British production houses. Such international cooperation underscored the project’s ambition to achieve global cinematic standards.

The film’s launch featured a ceremony befitting its grandeur. On October 16, 1997, Queen Elizabeth II visited India and attended the inaugural event at MGR Film City in Chennai. Her presence, along with dignitaries like Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi and veteran actors Sivaji Ganesan and Amrish Puri, highlighted the project’s cultural significance. The event showcased a specially crafted teaser featuring a battle scene that alone cost ₹1.5 crore.

The filmmakers reportedly offered the lead role of Marsha to Hollywood actress Kate Winslet, but she declined. They also approached Indian cinema icons Amitabh Bachchan and Rajinikanth for cameo roles, but neither participated. These casting efforts reflect their intent to blend international and local talent to enhance the film’s appeal.

Despite the initial enthusiasm, Marudhanayagam faced significant hurdles. In 1998, India’s nuclear tests in Pokhran led to geopolitical tensions causing the British production house involved to withdraw support. This withdrawal dealt a severe blow to the film’s financing leading to the suspension of production. The loss of a major international partner disrupted the collaborative framework essential for a project of this magnitude.