The Untold Story of Baahubali 2: Rise of the Empire

The epic tale of Baahubali 2 is much more than a mere continuation of the first film's plot. It delves into complex character motivations, intricate power struggles, and pivotal moments that shape the destiny of the ancient kingdom of Mahishmati. Set against the backdrop of political intrigue and personal vendettas, the story follows the path of Mahishmati's noble claimant, Amarendra Bahubali, and his rebellious cousin, Bhallaladeva.

Flashback and Backstory

The film opens with a nostalgic flashback that reveals the origin of the Mahishmati kingdom, emphasizing the lineage of the royal family. The narrative centers around Amarendra Bahubali (played by Prabhas) and his relationship with his cousin, Bhallaladeva (played by Sushant Singh Rajput), who opposes him. Bhallaladeva's father, a treacherous minister, manipulates the situation to turn their mother, Queen Sivagami (Vidya Balan), against Amarendra. Consequently, Amarendra is betrayed and killed.

Simultaneously, Queen Sivagami appoints Bahubali for an excursion to familiarize himself with the kingdom. She promises to find a suitable bride for him, igniting further jealousy in Bhallaladeva. Queen Sivagami sends gifts and offers to Bhallaladeva, but he rejects them, causing a spark of sympathy in her mind. During this journey, Bahubali encounters a fierce warrior princess, Devasena (Anushka Sharma), and falls in love with her.

Devasena's Story

Bahubali decides to win Devasena's heart and enlists the help of his loyal friend, Kattappa. Devasena, a princess of Kuntala, is entranced by Bahubali's bravery and kindness. However, Bhallaladeva, aware of Bahubali's feelings for Devasena, manipulates the situation by showing her a photograph to use against Queen Sivagami.

Bhallaladeva arranges for a marriage proposal from Mahishmati, which Devasena harshly rejects. Queen Sivagami, unaware of the true intentions, sends her troops to capture Devasena. Bahubali, now known as Shivudu, steps in to save Devasena and proves his strength, earning her heart. The narrative then shifts focus as Devasena's brother attacks Mahishmati, and Bahubali, with Kuntala's safety in mind, takes on the invaders.

Climactic Battle and Resolution

The climactic battle sees Mahishmati's forces take on Bhallaladeva's army. Bahubali, as the Senapati, leads his troops to victory, honoring his mother's promise. Devasena becomes his queen, and Mahishmati witnesses Bahubali's ascension to the throne.

However, the story takes a dramatic turn. Queen Sivagami face-to-face with her elation is overshadowed when Devasena discovers her mother's hidden plans, leading to a rift. Queen Sivagami gives Bahubali a choice, and he chooses Devasena over the throne. This decision angers Queen Sivagami, who declares Bhallaladeva as the king and relegates Bahubali to Senapati.

The narrative concludes with Bahubali and Devasena's marriage, but their happiness is short-lived. Bhallaladeva's treacherous actions, aided by Kattappa, lead to Bahubali's death during Devasena's childbirth. The story ends with the birth of their son, Mahendra Bahubali, who vows to avenge his father and mother's sacrifice.

In the final scene, Mahendra Bahubali avenges his parents and unites Mahishmati, with Avantika as his queen and Devasena as Raj-mata, fulfilling Sivagami's last wish.