Netflix set for prequel series to India’s Baahubaliv

Streaming service Netflix is set to capitalise on the success of India’s Baahubaliv franchise by ordering two seasons of a new original series based on the epic action film.

Baahubali: Before the Beginning will be a prequel to Baahubali: the Beginning and Baahubali: the Conclusion, two wildly popular films that grossed US$270 million at the global gross box office (including US$20 million at the US box office). The new series will run nine episodes and serve to deliver the backstory of “Queen Sivagami’s journey from a rebellious and vengeful girl to a wise and unequalled queen.”

Netflix says the series will, “build on the incredible narrative style of the franchise – including its high production values, spectacular visuals and connective-epic story-telling.”

The streamer is working the team behind the Baahubali universe, including Arka Media Works and SS Rajamouli. Deva Katta and Praveen Sataru will co-direct the series.

Prasad Devineni, producer at Arka Media Works, said: “We have been working for over a year now in developing this story, a prequel to the films as an Netflix original series. We are happy to be partnering with Netflix to produce this amazing story. This partnership gives us the reach and the creative freedom to bring to life the full potential of the series in all its grandeur and exceed the high expectations set by both our films.”