What makes Prabhas the beloved family hero despite his mass action image?

Actor Prabhas has become one of the biggest stars in Indian cinema, thanks to his action-packed roles and a huge fan base. Before he reached this level of fame, he was affectionately called ‘Darling Prabhas’ by Telugu audiences. His journey from a beloved local actor to a nationally-celebrated star showcases his growth and ability to adapt to the changing film industry. But, what exactly makes him so reverred among the masses?
As the nephew of the legendary actor and politician Krishnam Raju (who was called Rebel Star), Prabhas quickly earned the title of ‘Young Rebel Star’. He made his acting debut in the action drama Eeswar (2002) and followed it up with Raghavendra (2003). However, it was Varsham (2004), a mix of love and action, that really launched his career, bringing him commercial success and critical appreciation. This success laid a solid foundation for what was to come, though the road was not without bumps.
In the early years, Prabhas struggled to reach audiences beyond action films. His film Chatrapathi (2005) with SS Rajamouli was a big hit, but he still found himself typecast. Collaborating with well-known directors like B Gopal in Adavi Ramudu (2004) and Krishna Vamsi in Chakram (2005) raised expectations, but these films didn’t connect with the audience due to issues with their content. While he enjoyed some success with action movies soon, their repetitive nature began to dilute his appeal. Take example, Bujjigadu (2008), which did well, but films like Yogi (2007) and Munna (2007) received mixed reviews, leaving him at a crossroads.
A turning point came in 2010 with the release of Darling, hence the title. The film was directed by A Karunakaran, and it didn’t only establish him as a romantic hero but also brought him back in touch with the family audience. The title ‘Darling’ became a part of his public persona, highlighting the love he received from fans. After Darling, Prabhas continued to find success with films like Mr Perfect (2011) and Mirchi (2013), showcasing his range as an actor.
However, the monumental success of Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) and its sequel took Prabhas to new heights, making him a Pan-India star with a massive following. These films not only pushed the boundaries of Indian cinema but also showcased his star power globally. Yet, after the Baahubali series, his choice of films raised eyebrows. Movies like Saaho (2019), Radhe Shyam (2022), and Adipurush (2023) did not meet expectations, both critically and at the box office. These ambitious projects seemed to aim for a wider audience but moved away from the ‘Darling’ image that fans cherished.
While Prabhas is celebrated as a Pan-India action hero, the nature of action films often limits an actor’s ability to showcase their range. These films tend to focus on thrilling sequences rather than character development, which can restrict emotional depth. Family dramas and comedies, on the other hand, provide richer opportunities for actors to display their skills, allowing for performances that resonate more deeply with the audience.
This shift to Pan-India cinema has drawn mixed reactions. Critics have questioned Prabhas’s acting depth beyond action roles, especially with recent films like Salaar and Kalki 2898 AD. Fans are eager to see a more relatable side of him, and upcoming projects have sparked hope. Collaborations like The Raja Saab, directed by Maruthi, who’s known for his family-friendly films, and the project with filmmaker Hanu Raghavapudi, tentatively titled Fauji, suggest a return to the narrative-driven roles that first captured the audience’s hearts. Moreover, the sequels to Salaar and Kalki hint at a balance between maintaining his action hero status and reconnecting with the affectionate persona that has been pivotal in his career.
When you look at it, Prabhas’s journey reflects significant and organic changes in the Indian film industry, marked by both successes and setbacks. As he steps into this new phase, the possibility of re-establishing his ‘Darling’ persona excites both fans and critics alike. With a promising lineup of films ahead, Prabhas stands at the edge of redefining himself once again, reminding everyone that beneath the mass action hero image lies a versatile performer capable of connecting with diverse audiences.