Karan Johar explains why SS Rajamouli’s films like RRR succeed even without strong logical reasoning

Indian cinema has seen countless filmmakers come and go, but few have left an impact as powerful as SS Rajamouli. Known for his grand storytelling, breathtaking visuals, and larger-than-life characters, Rajamouli has redefined how Indian films are perceived globally. From Baahubali to RRR, his films have shattered box office records, won international acclaim, and captivated audiences worldwide.

However, one common observation about Rajamouli’s films is that they often defy logic. Whether it’s a lone warrior lifting an impossibly heavy object, animals joining the fight against villains, or gravity-defying stunts, his movies don’t always stick to real-world physics. Despite this, they continue to succeed, and fans love them.

Recently, filmmaker Karan Johar weighed in on this phenomenon, explaining why Rajamouli’s films, especially RRR, work so well despite not always following strong logical reasoning. His insights shed light on the magic behind Rajamouli’s storytelling and why audiences are willing to suspend disbelief when watching his films.

The Rajamouli Formula

Karan Johar, a filmmaker known for his keen understanding of Indian cinema, believes that Rajamouli’s success lies in his ability to evoke raw emotions. Unlike Hollywood-style filmmaking, which often prioritizes logic and realism, Rajamouli focuses on emotions that deeply connect with audiences.

In an interview, Karan Johar explained:
"Rajamouli understands the pulse of the audience. His films are not about logic; they are about emotion, spectacle, and drama. He makes you feel something so intensely that you don’t stop to question the logic behind it."

This statement perfectly sums up why RRR and other Rajamouli films resonate so strongly. They tap into universal emotions—friendship, sacrifice, revenge, patriotism—that audiences instinctively respond to.

Take, for example, the scene in RRR where Ram Charan’s character (Alluri Sitarama Raju) and Jr. NTR’s character (Komaram Bheem) team up for an over-the-top action sequence, swinging from ropes, dodging bullets, and performing near-impossible feats. In any other film, such a scene might seem ridiculous. But in RRR, it feels thrilling because the emotions behind it are so powerful. The bond between the characters is established so well that the audience wants them to succeed, no matter how exaggerated the action may be.

Larger-Than-Life Spectacle

Another reason Rajamouli’s films succeed without strict logical reasoning is his mastery of visual spectacle. His movies are designed for the big screen, filled with epic set pieces, jaw-dropping action sequences, and stunning cinematography.

Karan Johar pointed out that Rajamouli knows how to keep audiences engaged by offering them an experience they won’t get anywhere else. He said:
"When you watch a Rajamouli film, you are not just watching a story unfold; you are witnessing a grand spectacle. It’s a feast for the eyes, and you don’t want to blink because you might miss something amazing."

This approach makes it easy for audiences to overlook logical inconsistencies. When a scene is so visually breathtaking and emotionally charged, viewers become immersed in the world of the film rather than analyzing whether something is scientifically possible.

For example, in Baahubali, there’s a scene where Prabhas’ character jumps onto a gigantic waterfall to rescue a woman. Realistically, such a leap would be impossible. But the way it is shot—with grand music, slow-motion effects, and a sense of mythological heroism—makes it feel believable within the film’s universe.

Rooted in Culture and Mythology

One of the reasons Rajamouli’s films work despite defying logic is that they draw inspiration from Indian mythology and folklore. In these traditional stories, heroes often have superhuman strength, animals fight alongside warriors, and divine interventions are common.

Karan Johar acknowledged that Rajamouli cleverly weaves these elements into modern filmmaking. He explained:
"Indian audiences have grown up listening to tales from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. These stories have shaped our idea of heroism and storytelling. Rajamouli taps into that cultural memory and presents it in a fresh, cinematic way."

This is evident in RRR, which is loosely based on real-life revolutionaries but tells their story in a mythological, larger-than-life manner. The characters are given superhuman abilities, and their journey feels almost divine—like the epics we grew up listening to.

Since these elements are deeply embedded in Indian storytelling traditions, audiences don’t question them. Instead, they embrace the heightened reality as part of the cinematic experience.

The Power of Storytelling

Despite the lack of strict logical reasoning, Rajamouli’s films never feel hollow or disconnected. This is because he prioritizes storytelling above all else. Every action scene, every dramatic moment, and every twist in the plot serves the larger narrative.

Karan Johar noted that Rajamouli never throws in a spectacle just for the sake of it. He said:
"There is always a strong emotional or narrative reason behind every grand scene in his movies. That’s why they work. You may find something over-the-top, but deep down, you understand why it’s happening, and that’s what makes it powerful."

For instance, in RRR, the introduction scene of Jr. NTR’s character, Bheem, features him fighting off a tiger with his bare hands. Is it realistic? Not at all. But does it establish his strength, fearlessness, and deep connection with nature? Absolutely. And that’s what matters.

This is what separates Rajamouli from other filmmakers who attempt large-scale action. His grand moments aren’t just for visual appeal—they have meaning within the story.

Global Appeal

What’s even more fascinating is that Rajamouli’s approach to filmmaking has now gained international recognition. With RRR winning accolades worldwide and even securing an Oscar for Best Original Song (Naatu Naatu), his style has transcended cultural barriers.

Karan Johar believes that Rajamouli’s success globally is because his films rely on universal themes. He said:
"At their core, Rajamouli’s films are about basic human emotions—love, friendship, betrayal, courage. These themes work anywhere in the world, whether it’s India, the U.S., or Japan."

This explains why RRR became a phenomenon even in countries where Indian cinema isn’t widely watched. Audiences didn’t need to understand the historical context or the local references to connect with the emotions and energy of the film.

Conclusion

Karan Johar’s explanation of SS Rajamouli’s success makes it clear that cinema is not just about logic—it’s about storytelling, emotions, and spectacle. While some directors focus on realism, Rajamouli transports audiences into a world where anything is possible, as long as it feels right emotionally.

His films are a reminder that movies are meant to be experienced, not analyzed frame by frame for realism. When done right, storytelling can make even the most impossible scenes feel real. And that’s the true power of Rajamouli’s cinema.

"Rajamouli has cracked the code of what makes Indian cinema larger-than-life yet deeply emotional. He has given us movies that make us cheer, cry, and believe in heroes again. That’s why his films succeed, logic or not."