It's not long in the future when the iconic on-screen romance of Nagarjuna and Tabu returns to the silver screen. The two famous pairings that dominated Telugu cinema during the 1990s, once regarded as one of the most popular romance pair is set to reunite for Nagarjuna’s 100th film milestone film, tentatively set to arrive, titled King 100.
Fans reacted with exhilaration following the news, many recalling fondly the days when they collaborated earlier. Nagarjuna and Tabu starred in a few iconic films during the 1990s, and both were often praised as a pair for their acting chemistry. The pair became a fan favourite, and eventually, gossip around an off-screen fling was also popularised. Rumours of a possibility of getting married had once made the news, but never came to fruition.
Now, with 28 years on, the duo returns to make King 100 one of Telugu cinema’s most exciting projects. Naga has been getting a lot of press and praise for the 100th time he has appeared in celluloid, but his big career break is this movie.
The director Ra Karthik also directed King 100, a massive project that Nagarjuna personally had ensured would produce high production values. The film is said to include him in various appearances with state-of-the-art de-ageing technology used to depict different stages of his character’s life.
Tabu has been shooting for the film since the beginning, and more than a week ago, posted a tease from the sets on social media, adding to the buzz and anticipation. The film supposedly features her playing a pivotal role opposite Nagarjuna, to restore their much-vaunted coupling to the silver screen. It is interesting to note that King 100 is, paradoxically, not only a commercial entertainer but also a film that has an emotional centre.
The narrative is said to be a father-daughter story, blending family drama with tear-jerking moments filled with both home movie and cinematic excess. The Nagarjuna-Tabu duo has shared the screen with the likes of Sisindri (in cameo roles), the blockbuster Ninne Pelladata and Aavida Maa Aavide.
Their last full-fledged partnership was in 1998, so this reunion after 28 years is even more special. There is a dedicated fan base on board, and all the anticipation for their darling lovers to return to the screen.
King 100 is going to be more than just an elaborate celebration of Nagarjuna’s, and it’s set (and everyone, especially his nostalgic TV fans who have always loved the everlasting magic that is the chemistry of him and Tabu) will enjoy, too.
