Kalki 2898 AD: Did you know Amitabh Bachchan’s character Ashwatthama was born with a divine gem on his forehead? These 6 facts will blow your mind

Prepare to delve into the enigmatic character of Ashwatthama before immersing yourself in the epic tale of ‘Kalki 2898 AD.’ As the film promises a fusion of mythology and science fiction, Amitabh Bachchan as Ashwatthama has piqued the audience’s curiosity. Before you witness this cinematic marvel, here are six essential facts about Ashwatthama from the Mahabharata.

Lesser-known facts about Ashwatthama

1. Divine Lineage: Born to Dronacharya and Kripi, Ashwatthama is revered as the fifth incarnation of Lord Shiva, embodying both divine and mortal qualities.

2. Name Significance: The name ‘Ashwatthama’ stems from the unique cry he emitted at birth, symbolising ‘the sacred voice resembling that of a horse.’ Also known as Dronaputra, Guruputra and Kripi Kumara, his identity resonates with various epithets.

3. Divine Protection: At birth, Ashwatthama bore a divine gem on his forehead, conferring him dominion over beings below humans and rendering him virtually indestructible and immortal, shielded from hunger, thirst, fatigue, and weaponry.

4. Mastery of Weapons: Endowed with knowledge of divine weapons like the Narayanastra, Brahmastra, and Brahmashirastra, Ashwatthama emerged as one of the most formidable warriors of the Mahabharata, despite his impulsive tendencies. However, his impulsive nature ultimately led to his downfall.

5. Maharathi Warrior: Renowned as a formidable Maharathi, Ashwatthama fought alongside the Kauravas in the Kurukshetra War, showcasing his martial ability and prowess.

6. Curse of Immortality: Infamous for his attempt to slay Uttara’s unborn child, Ashwatthama incurred the wrath of Lord Krishna, who cursed him with immortality. Legend has it that he roams the Narmada Ghat and when people perform the Narmada Parikrama, there’s a possibility that one may encounter him there.

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With these insights, you’re primed to unravel the complexities of Ashwatthama’s character and the profound narrative of ‘Kalki 2898 AD.’ The movie is all set to release on May 9th 2024.

About the movie Kalki 2898 AD

The movie is directed by Nag Ashwin and produced by C. Aswani Dutt of Vyjayanthi Movies. The cast involves Amitabh Bachchan in the lead role, Deepika Padukone, Prabhas, Kamal Haasan, Disha Patani, Rana Daggubati and Dulqeer Salman.

Also Read: Amitabh Bachchan looks fierce as the immortal Ashwatthama in Kalki 2898 AD teaser, calls it ‘an experience like no other’