Myth and Colonial Struggles: A Reinterpretation of S.S. Rajamouli's RRR

Abstract This paper examines S.S. Rajamouli’s blockbuster film RRR (2022), which reconceptualises India’s colonial resistance through the mythological framework of the Ramayana. The movie specifically portrays the Gond leader, Komaram Bheem (Jr NTR), as lord Hanuman. This paper investigates how Rajamouli recontextualises India’s colonial resistance through devotion, sacrifice, and the struggle between dharma (righteousness) and adharma (tyranny). The central research question explores how RRR utilises the Ramayana framework to reflect and reinterpret the themes of loyalty, betrayal, and resistance in the context of British colonial rule. Bheem’s mission to rescue Malli parallels Hanuman’s quest for Sita and showcases his loyalty and strength. Raju’s transformation from a loyal officer to a revolutionary echoes Vibhishana’s betrayal of Ravana. Governor Scott Buxton embodies Ravana’s tyranny, which is eventually overthrown by righteous forces. By interpreting RRR through this Ramayana lens, this paper highlights the mythic battle between righteousness and tyranny, as well as the enduring themes of devotion and betrayal. Keywords: RRR, SS Rajamouli, Ramayana, Mythology, Colonial Resistance, Indian Cinema