'Baahubali' to get another life on Netflix as a prequel

Fans of "Baahubali" can revisit the world of Mahishmati in a new Netflix series that will explore the journey of Sivagami in a prequel to the SS Rajamouli's two-part blockbuster.

The series, which was announced by Netflix today, has already been given a two-season order.

"Baahubali: Before the Beginning", will be a prequel to "Baahubali: the Beginning" and "Baahubali: the Conclusion", and is based on Anand Neelakantan's book, "The Rise of Sivagami".

Season one of the series will have nine episodes and captures Sivagami's journey from a rebellious and vengeful girl to a wise and unequalled queen.

Netflix has teamed up with the team behind "Baahubali", including Arka Media Works and Rajamouli. Deva Katta and Praveen Sataru will co-direct the series.

Rajamouli is looking forward to the prequel.

"I am very excited that this is being adapted as a Netflix Original Series. With Netflix as our partner, we have the opportunity to create a rich and riveting series and take this quintessential Indian epic to the world, which is very gratifying to me as a storyteller," he said in a statement.

According to a synopsis provided by the streaming giant, "Power, politics and intrigue find themselves juxtaposed against the rise of Mahishmati - from being a city-state to an empire."
Erik Barmack, VP, International Originals, Netflix, said, "Baahubali is a world-class franchise that epitomizes the power of compelling stories that resonate globally. We are excited to work with some of the world's most talented writers and producers on one of India's most beloved stories. The series is a tremendous opportunity for us to give audiences more of the universe that they have come to love, and welcome millions more into the global Baahubali fandom."